Agriculture • Horticulture • forestry • Environment • Amenity
Spring 2001
ENGINE TORQUE SENSING
MANGO DESTONER
_BS50
vl y y •V' J 1/? -mx
i'i'taisi Lv. i h
i
for mew
xamine trae
MembeVwishing to submi^Epers or displa^Vosters Deadline i^paper shou^Pontact: •r St^m Parkin \\\>« Silso^Ksearch Institute * \ V k, ^ k . %. [email protected] ^ - V
%< ^ *• / erence details coptact^The Secretariat, Institution of Ag St End Road, ledford. MK45 4D0, Tel: 01525 861096, Fax:/]1 525 i [email protected] -V / to: JD 3000 Series telescooic / Volume 56 No I, Spring 2001
The Journal for Professional Engineers in Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Amenity LANDWARDS Editor Eur Ing Prof Brian D Witney
PhD CEng FIMechE HonFIAgrEMemASAE LAND TECHNOLOGY LTD 33 South Barnton Ave, Edinburgh, EH4 6AN CONTENTS Tel/Fax: 0131 336 3129 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.landtec.co.ul< Feature Articles
Advertising 2 TRACTOR DESIGN All enquiries to the Institution of Engine torque sensing in farnn tractors Agricultural Engineers How it improves performance Tel: 01525 861096 Fax:OI525 861660 W John Foxwell
Origination: David King 20 FOOD PROCESSING Mango destoner Printing: Barr Printers Ltd Federico Hahn
Price £16.00 per copy 22 RURAL DEVELOPMENT subscription £52.00 (post free in UK) Research-development linkages, a case study from south east Publisher Zimbabwe Landwards is published quarterly by: Institution of Agricultural Engineers, Jim Ellis-Jones, Vurayai Zvarevashe, West End Road, Silsoe, Steve Twomlow and Kelly Stevenson Bedford, MK45 4DU Tel: 01525 861096 Fax: 01525 861660 News and Comment E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.iagre.org 12 News scan
President 28 Company and product information Geoffrey J H Freedman BScCEng FIAgrE
Chief Executive & Secretary Christopher RWhetnall Front cover: A^ossey Ferguson 8250 (photo:AGCO) lEngMlAgrEMemASAE
The views and opinions expressed in individualcontributions are not those necessarily of the Institution or the Editor. Landwards is compiled from information received by the Institution of Agricultural Engineers but no responsibil ity can be accepted by the governing Council, the Publishers or the Editor in respect of any errors or omis sions. The Editor reserves the right to edit any material sent to the journal. Material from this publication may be quoted or reported on condition that full credit is given to Landwards and to the author, and that the date of publication and volume number are stated. In the interest of factual reporting, reference to trade names and proprietary products may be inevitable. No endorsement of the named products or manufacturers is intended and no adverse criticism is implied of similar products which are not mentioned.
©THE INSTITUTION OF AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS ISSN 1363-8300 TRACTOR DESIGN
A Ford 7000 torque controlling a mounted chisel plough
fdro u.
W John Foxwell ENGINE TORQUE SENSING
How it improves performance
Abstract pulling trailing implements. I he background of implement control is discussed from Ferguson's early attempts In a provisional patent to the latest torque sensing patents. The benefit of torque sensingover the linkage application dated February 12. sensingof mounted implements is clearly detailed,as are the benefits of applying 1925 entitled Apparatus for torque sensingto the control of trailed implements. As torque sensinggives the tractor Coupling Agricultural its own inbuilt dynamometer;torque sensing has other benefits such as diagnostic testing Implements to Tractors and to detect hidden engine problems. Itcould also be useful in determining the transmission Automatically Regulating the efficiency of tractors undergoing the OECD tests ifthe drawbar tests on the track were Depth of Cut inWork, he superseded by dynamometer tests measuringthe actual axle power. Characteristic wrote in one approach that: performance curves based on axle power with suggestions for predictingthe The torque reaction of the performance on various soils are also included. tractor may be utilisedfor controlling the depth of cut of the implement and. as this Background to I) in order to eliminate their reaction is dependent on the implement control depth wheels and transfer the draught of the implement, it is Seventy-iiveyears ago in implement weight to the immediately rectified and the Ireland, far sighted Harry drivingwheels ofthe tractor; normal depth of cut Ferguson experimented with so enabling the tractor to be constantly maintained'. He implements mounted to the lighter and more suggested that this might be rear of a Fordson tractor (Fig, manoeuvrable than tractors achieved by using the worm
2 lAHDWMDi SPRING 2001 In the amended complete influenced tractor design, specification of the patent, namely the development of however he did not mention the maize header on the torque sensing again,and he combine harvester and the eventually developed the chemical control ofweeds. three-point hitch, as we know These two factors eliminated it today, with top linksensing the need for the narrow of implement draught. In tricycle rowcrop tractors that 1938, he sold the idea to were standard in the'corn Henry Ford and, between belt', but below 40 kW in them, the 9N Ford Ferguson power because of the single Mr John Foxwell's technical tractor was introduced in front wheels. Wide front axles 1939, It was an immediate replaced the tricycle front education was obtained at the success, being small and light; axles and the size and power Merchant Venturers Technical College and when equipped with the of the tractors rapidly in Bristol and the SEETC in new rubber tyres, very increased together with the Barking, Essex. He won a Ford manoeuvrable, very safe and use of the three point hitch of scholarship in 1936 graduating top easy to drive. As the which there were three student in I9]9. During the war implements were mounted at categories in size. To handle he worked on the designs of the rear, in ideal soil conditions, the longer and heavier military trucks and personnel weight was transferred to the implements which did not carriers before being transferred to rear wheels from both the work well with the top link design implements lor (he new plough and the front axle by sensing,lower link'draft E27N tractor in 1944. He progressed to Executive Engineer - . t *• an amount approximately control'was invented. The equal to the amount of weight lines of pull of these heavier Tractors in I9SS and influenced transferred when the mounted implements passed the design of the Fordson Major implement is in the transport to the rear of the ball ends of and Dexta tractors. Transferred to position (Fig, 2a). up to almost the lower links, causing tension the U.S. in 1962,he became Chief twice that of the implement's rather than compression loads Engineer Ford Tractor Operations weight (Figs 2b & 2c). This was in the top link. (Worldwide] in 1964 and was reduced in harder soils and Some long multi-furrow responsible for the 2000,3000, when the line of pull became ploughs were semi-mounted 4000, SOOO, 7000,6000 and 9000 parallel to the ground no on the tractor and attached range of tractors. In 1975 he weight was transferred. Later only to the two lower links. retired to form his own consulting pinion in the rear axle of the as Ferguson's patents expired The three-point hitch has a self company. Now fully retired he tractor Quoting again from other manufacturers adopted correcting built-in feature keeps up to date with tractor the application, he states:'The the three-point hitch. which keeps the corrections affairs, fie is a 40 year Fellow of worm is capable of endwise smallwhen hard ground is the lAgrE and a S5 year Fellow of movement and an extension Other influences tilled. When the lower links the IMechE as well as being a thereof is arranged in contact In the late nineteen fifties, two alone were used, it needed an member of the SAE. He keeps fit with an arm of a bell-crank other events in the US additional manual control by playing golf twice a week in lever pivoted on the tractor Kichigan and in Florida in the and used for suspending the implement from the tractor through suitable linkage. Thus, the load or end thrust on the worm is proportioned to the Ipp—lf draught of the implement and any variation in the draught will produce a corresponding variation in the load, or end thrust, with the result that the extension ofthe worm in contact with the ball-crank t vmi • 1* lever will pivot the same either upwards or downwards, as the case might be, to raise or lower the depth of cut of the Fig. I. The integral construction of the 1917 Fordson model was implement according to a factor in making it the first tractor to be mass produced; the whether the depth of cut of initial 5000 were shipped to Britain in 1917; in 1919, production the implement is to be was shifted to Cork in Ireland and in 1932, to Dagenham; note reduced or increased'. the worm drive in the rear axle. [Source; British patent no. 253,566 dated February 12, 1925 by Harry Ferguson]. TRACTOR DESIGN
which the operator could the wheelslip approaches 25%. factor into minimise the large only a small increase in corrections which occur in drawbar pull will induce hard ground. complete wheelspin, A further factor that particularly on the harder facilitated the increase in surfaces. A further useful chart tractor size and power was the (Fig. 3c) also shows the effect improvement inthe hydraulic of tractor speed on soil systems applied to the control ploughing resistance. of pulltype equipment which C"G could not be mounted on the Three point hitch three point hitch. Higher sensing problems 085L operating pressures, coupled While the adoption of the with the standardisation of three point hitch with linkage remote hydraulic cylinders and control of an implement was a improved breakaway hose monumental step forward, couplers enabled one linkage control of an operator to hitch and operate implement has one very great extremely large and heavy disadvantage, namely that it pieces of equipment maintains the same selected draught of the implement at all Predicting times. This works well when performance the soil is uniform throughout V vvrvr The behaviour of a tractor and a field but it can cause implement in the field is problems when the soil mysterious to many engineers resistance or surface but it need not be so. The conditions vary as they do characteristic performance quite frequently For instance, curves for two wheel drive when going from a firmer soil (2WD) tractors are shown in to a softer one. the unit Figs 3a & 3b. These curves resistance ofthe soil is cannot be put together from reduced and an implement will the current tests conducted by go deeper to achieve the same the Organisation for European draught as before. At the Co-operation and same time, the rolling Development (OECD) resistance ofthe tractor is because the axle power is not increased considerably and vvvv I given. One has to go back to adds to the load on the the late nineteen fifties and tractor The increased study the reports of the British wheelslip also wastes more Standard tests where a few power There is now a tractors were tested on situation where the tractor is various soils as well as on a called upon to work much Fig. 2. (a) This shows a tractor similar to the 9N with the hard tarmacadam test track. If harder than it did on the Ferguson three-point hitch carrying a three furrow mounted plough in the transport position; the weight transfer from the the axle power of the tractor firmer soil,resulting in either front axle is obtained by taking movements about the rear axle, is known, one can determine engine stall or wheel spin or where W is the weight of the plough in kg, L is the wheelbase in from the graphs and tables, the both. Sometimes this happens cm; C of G is the centre of gravity of the plough. Weight in kg traction efficiency, the drawbar so fast that the operator is added to the rear axle is 0.85W + W = 1.85W. pull, the wheelslip,the weight powerless to prevent either (b)The same implement as in Fig. 2a, at its working depth in the on each axle and the towing situation. This means that to soil; the drawbar pull is P in kN; the excess downward load ofthe draught for each surface maintain fonA/ard motion, the implement is E in kg and is the suction ofthe shares in the soil as the implement is pulled forward plus some of the weight of the condition, providingthe tractor implement's depth of cut must implement; R is the resultant force in kN along the line of pull; H is equipped with tyres which be set shallower on the firmer is the moment arm in cm of the line of pull about the contact can support the loads on the parts ofthe field. This also point ofthe rear tyre with the soil; the centre ofpressure (C of P) axles at the normal operating applies to undulating fields is approximately the same distance from the rear axle as the C of G of the plough. The weight transfer to the rear wheels is pressures (from the where the extra power to 0.85E + E = I.85E manufacturers tables, not climb an incline can also cause in soft soil, E is approximately equal to W; in hard soil or with shown). It can be seen from engine stall. Harry Ferguson worn shares E < W in varying degrees until it becomes zero when the implement will not go any deeper. the graphs that, for maximum knew these problems existed tractive efficiencythe wheelslip with his small tractors. In (c) The rear view of Fig. 2b, showing where the centre ofpressure on the different soils varies demonstrations on land which of the implement acts relative to the centre line of the tractor; from about 10% to 17%. As was not uniform, his operators Fig. 2b, is a view in the direction ofthe arrow.
4 WNDWARDS SPRING 2001 sometimes wore long white coats with only their left hands Tractor torque sensing on the steering wheels,to The foregoing symptoms can be demonstrate how easy the overcome by factoring into the tractors were to steen sensing system both the rolling Meanwhile, their right hands resistance as well as the draught were in the right pockets of the load of the implements. Torque coats but actuallyoperating sensing can achieve this because through the coat slits and onto it does not differentiate the manual control lever unseen between the loads caused by to the spectators. The driver the draught of the implement or - 1 / could raise the implement the rolling resistance of the i20 / momentarily to put more tractor and,when ascending tA - y - Q> weight on the rear wheels ifa gradients, it will raise the ^ 10 > i slippage problem was implement to maintain forward - ^ encountered or raise the progress. IfFerguson could have 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 implement slightly when made the worm work, linkage Drawbar pull, kN/kW ascending an incline. 'draft control' would never have been heard of A mounted (a) Trailed implements implement controlled by a 100 Trailed implements with fixed torque sensing system which is depths of cut behave a little monitoring both draught and - ^ - differently. When the ground rolling resistance will maintain a 80 varies from hard to soft, the more even depth ofcut as the soil resistance varies. When -/ - decrease in the draught and the / increase in the rolling resistance going from hard to soft soils, the x''c '.c 60 tend to balance each othen increase in rolling resistance (Fig.
: maintaining a more uniform load 3a) coupled with the decrease £ / E on the tractor When operating in draught inthe softer soil (Fig. Z 40 in undulating fields, the extra 3c) in many cases will offset power required by the tractor each other and maintain the N and implement to ascend the same depth of cut. The 20 incline can sometimes stall the converse occurs when going on engine or at least slow it down to a harder soil from a softer considerably one. Therefore, the depth of cut
10 20 30 Wheelslip. %
(b)
60 Static Towing Cwve Surface weight. draught., B kg/kW N/kW £ A Tarmacadam 120 25 B Grassland - damp 111 65 C Stubbie on moist med. loam 111 92 2 40 D Cultivated moist med. loam 111 157 E Soft and sandy 111 188
o Weight on Tyre Drawbar o Surface axles,% pressure. height. CO
Front Rear kPa mm 20 Tarmacadam 26 74 110 381 Soils 28 72 82 355 Speed, km/h
(c) Fig. 3. CFiaracteristic performance curves for 2WD tractors using (b) Chart showing the relationship between tractive efficiency and the tabulated data. wheelslip for two wheel drive tractors; points on curves A, B, C, D and E are at maximum efficiency. [Source: N.I.A.E.TractorTest (a) Charts showing the relationships between drawbar pull, Report number R. 59026 dated 29 June 1959]. wheelslip and tractive efficiency; points are at maximum efficiency on five surfaces:A, tarmacadam; B, grassland (damp); C, stubble (c) Chart showing approximately the variation ofsoil ploughing on medium loam (moist); D, cultivated medium loam (moist);and resistance with speed; points B, C, D, and E correspond to the E, soft and sandy. points on Figs 3a and 3b. TRACTOR DESIGN
can work with all types of system. They depict two test tractors, small and large, runs in the same field, minutes including two wheel drive, apart, on the same tractor front wheel assist, four wheel with the same four furrow drive, crawler and bi plough running in adjacent directional tractors. It can furrows in a typical stubble automatically change gears in a field. Each run was of 18 powershift transmission, seconds duration over a making it useful for adjusting distance of 33 m. The surface the foHA/ard speed of a tractor was flat but with depressions operating a PTO driven forage and ridgesleft over from prior harvester When the density harvesting. of the crop reaches a Perhaps the most dramatic lo.y-Xg.yii-Mh predetermined figure, forward comparison of the two speed is reduced to prevent systems isthe one comparing the crop from jamming up the the variation in engine speed. cutter mechanism. There was a maximum So why istorque sensing variation of440 rev/min for not in vogue on today's the top link system and 225 tractors except in one rev/min for the torque control To Hydraulic Control application with limited use of system but, more importantly its capabilities? Most torque the average variation was sensors take up a lot of lateral much less with torque sensing. From Engine space which is not available in At the same time, the number modern drivelines and neither of hydraulic pump corrections is it easy to accomplish by varied from 194 per minute mechanical means only for the top link system and only 85 per minute for the The first tractor with torque sensor system, with the torque sensing time that the system was The Ford 7000 tractor (Title pressurised varyingfrom 42% photo) was introduced with a to 28%, respectively The mechanical torque transducer amount ofvertical movement in 1971 (Fig. 4). It was ofthe ball ends ofthe rear of To Rear Wheels conceived by Chuck McKeon the lower links, relative to the who was both a farmer and an tractor; was a maximum of engineer: and it was mounted 12.2 cm for the top link (b) inthe space between the system,9.6 cm for the torque transmission and the rear axle. sensing system and the average Fig.4. (a) Cross section through the torque sensor:(I) output As it did not change the variation with the torque hub; (2) disc springs; (3) disc spring retainer; (4) ballbearings in housings in any way it was very sensor was much less. splines, permitting sliding between I and 11; (5) override stop cost effective. It was All these improvements pin; (6) ball thrust plate; (7) input hub; (8) returning washer immersed in oil and used 10 add up to: less variation in the when unit is bolted to rear axle bevel pinion; (9) ball bearings - ball bearings engaging spring depth of cut of the implement: 10 in number; (10) roller thrust bearing; (I I) outer hub which loaded ramps and was significantly less wear and tear moves to the left under load; (12) retainer. connected to the control valve on the engine, the driveline, (b)The McKeon torque sensor positioned on the input shaft of by a simple lever mechanism. the hydraulic pump, control the rear axle bevel pinion and driven by the transmission output Itwas also interchangeable valve and linkage, and the shaft. [Source: U.S. patent no. 3,575,241 dated April 20.1971]. with the top link sensing three-point hitch ball joints; system carried over from the less tyre flex;and less fuel varies much less than with a heavy implements,the angle of less powerful Ford 5000 used. linkage control systenn and a the line of pull does not affect model to work with less powerful tractor can do it in any way It can control landscaping blades. A simple The first tractor to the work of a larger one. The heavy reversible, multi-furrow lever engaged one system or automatically control the tractive efficiency varies less, ploughs with ease. It can the other even on the move. depth of cut of trailed less fuel is used, air pollution is control tillage implements implements less and both initial and mounted on the front hitch, Test results of the The Ford 7000 torque system operating costs are smaller with suitable valving, as well as McKeon sensor also performed very well with Torque sensing of rear trailed equipment ifthey have The three charts (Fig. 5) show trailed chisel ploughs which mounted tillage implements special remote cylinders to just how effective the McKeon had their depth wheels does not differentiate between raise or lower them into and torque sensing system was controlled by a modified ASAE close coupled or large and out of work. Torque sensing compared to the top link standard (Fig. 6) remote
6 lANDWARDS SPRING 200! Top link sensing system distance climbed up a 10% adapted for agricultural use Speed variation=440rev/min incline is a rise of I unit for with trailed implements. 2200rev/min every 10 units travelled along Although the McKeon the slope. A 5% slope is I in torque sensor performed well 20. The extra pull needed to and reliably for several years, it propel a 75 kW tractor with a had to be abandoned when 1760rev/min mass of I I I kg/kW and a 900 the drive for the front wheel Torque sensing system kgtrailed implement up a assist (FWA) axles was Speed variation=225rev/min 2175rev/min slope of 3% from the positioned in front of it so that characteristic charts is: it absorbed the not
I950rev/min (75 x 11 I + 900) Xg X0.03 inconsiderable torque wind-up = 2.71 kN between the front and rear where g isthe acceleration axles,rendering the sensing Top link sensing system due to gravity From the capability useless. Height movement A= 122mm charts, this adds to the draught In reviewingthe Nebraska of 24.6 kN at maximum and British Standard OECD efficiency on levelstubble land, tests ofthe first Ford 7000 an increase of II% which tractor in each country, it is would cause many tractors to incredible that there is not one Torque sensing system stall and, in the case oftractors mention, in either report, that Height movement B=96mm with high torque back-up, the the tractor had a new and engine to slow down the revolutionary method of forward speed by I I% controlling the depth of work depending how suddenly the of both mounted and trailed (b) incline is encountered. With a implements. These are reports torque sensing system,the that are supposed to help the Top link sensing system 94 corrections per minute depth of cut would be farmer in choosing a tractor!!! Pressurised 42% of the time decreased by I I% and progress would be maintained. Where should a torque Figure 7 shows an sensor be located to be of electronically controlled most use? Torque sensing system remote cylinderthat could be The questions to be asked are: 85 corrections per minute Pressurised 28% of the time i
Fig. 5. Comparison between a top link sensing system and a torque sensing system for a Ford 5000 tractor with a four furrow, mounted plough: (a) engine speed; (b) lower link vertical end movement relative to the tractor; and (c) hydraulic pump pressure corrections 3 cylinder. This was connected in torque sensor but suffered series v^ith the main hydraulic engine stallwith the fixed lift cylinderso that they moved depth control. The torque in unison, giving a feedback to controlled implement could be Fig. 6. Modification of the ASAE hydraulic remote cylinder to the remote cylinder to cut off set deeper in the flat parts of work in series with the Ford 7000 tractor hydraulic lift cylinder; the severe upward corrections the field than the one with the fluid from the tractor hydraulic pump is directed to the remote in hard ground. In fixed depth of cut. Inthe same cylinder to lift the trailed implement; as the cylinder extends, comparative test way as a car loses speed on a the fluid in the piston rod side is directed to the main tractor lift demonstrations in undulating hill ifthe power is not cylinder which moves linkage to shut off the tractor control fields between implements increased, the tractor needs valve when the stroke is completed; to ensure that the cylinders with fixed depth control and more power for lifting itself are in phase, a poppet valve in the piston of the remote cylinder those under the influence of and the implement up an contacts the end cap and is pushed off its seat to allow the fluid the torque sensor on the same incline, as well as maintaining to go to the main cylinder and ensures that it reaches the end of tractor; switched from one forward progress, pulling the its stroke to shut off the tractor control valve; the cylinder can system to the other; the implement and overcoming be used normally by rotating the piston 180° so that the poppet tractor would maintain rolling resistance. valve lines up with a hole drilled in the end cap preventing it progress on inclines with the For instance the vertical from being unseated. TRACTOR DESIGN
Parkertron ^ Sensors
SENSOR I H HSI I^P H DISPLAY Fig. 7. An industrtal electronically controlled'smart' cylinder which might be adapted to the lower cost ASAE cylinder for ^58 '-60 ^62 agricultural use; the piston rod has shallow helical grooves machined along its circumference and then chrome plated over and ground to size; a Hall-effect, non-contacting sensor looks through the non-magnetic chrome to sense the grooves in the magnetic piston rod, sending digital pulses to the on-board 6 Lr64 computer to read out displacement. [Source: Parker Hannifin sales brochure no. 1165 dated December, 1982].
ENGNE — TRANSMISSION how can a torque transducer the gears in the 18 by 6 be incorporated into a powershift transmission {Fig. tractor's dnveiine without 8), This device adapts to the having to make major changes movement between the and increasing tooling costs; driving and driven members of and where can it be located so the vibration damper at their as not to incur parasitic loads, outer circumferences. The as in the case of the McKeon interaction with a Hall-effect design,and to also control the position sensor is fed into an Pig. 8. Two views of the New Holland flywheel mounted torque PTO shaft,work with all types onboard computer to provide sensor; the engine flywheel (14) drives the power shift of transmissions of any size out the torque of the engine. transmission input shaft (38) via the driving disc (48), springs and configuration such as When combined with speed (36) and (36') and the driven discs (54) and (56); the disc (48) articulated 4WD machines as sensors at the flywheel and rotates a limited distance with the discs (54) and (56); four well as combine harvesters output shafts,output signals for projections on the driven disc (56) operate in the gaps (26), and, for that matter; the engine brake power and (26a) and (26b) cut in the front face of the flywheel (14) and automobiles and trucks? approximate output torque of interact with a Hall-effect position sensor (58) which feeds into The locations that meets the transmission in each gear the on-board computer (60) and to the display (62) to read out all these criteria is at the ratio can be used to the torque of the engine; this is explained in detail in the patent engine flywheel, or between automatically shift the USA no 5,596,153. [Source: U.S. patent no. 5,596,153 dated Jan. the engine and transmission, transmission up and down as 21,1997]. interfacing with non-contacting the torque in the rear axle electronic position sensors decreases or increases. The transmissions using a manual hydraulic system, perhaps which are now available, having coil springs are six in number clutch,and the spnngs are because it cannot be adapted been proved cost effective and four lighter ones, and two subject to being forced to all transmissions in the 'TM' reliable in automobile heavier ones which are set outwards due to centrifugal model line. It is claimed to applications. Two recent back an amount equal to half force. This effect could cause change gears as smooth by as patents have used the flywheel the deflection of the lighter wear and tear and increase an automatic transmission in a location for a torque sensor ones. The device works very their hysteresis. The end car They are the Foxwell patent well but has some limitations. loading between the springs On the other hand, the and the Bulgrien (New It can only operate powershift and the discs Is also high and Foxwell torque sensor (Fig. 9) Holland) patent which was transmissions, up to 1000 Nm could wear in time and affect which is adapted from a two- introduced in the New of torque, which have their the accuracy of the readings. piece flywheel and can be used Holland TM' series tractors in own disconnect clutches. It The patent has not been to work with any type of 1999 to change automatically cannot work with manual adapted to control the transmission, issuitable for any AttVIWA
Attrn^a
'O-^ —> ~ 2C£AfntAUZIN6 ii,i. ti OLL£Rt £OUfiLLW
htfiecrtof^ srvsof JJVS3R
sersoe THtctroti SP/dneS 2.3& THICK. SBTMCK /osers oFTH/'y^efZ fnofn fioiLexs, SPfi//^S TH/Ct: . <^SPAl^6S 30SPettJSS TOTAU. M total.
2 STOPS
J2Rol eOvaLVi
J TouMMCt* umm ENGINe TORQUP SeNSOff OTOOMm tmtmo fMcnoN* Dce AN«ut W/Th ball /VJO MlVc. ^ ; ^To'fnMunZ r»w^ssi7rM~ ~ XX* TXflh/S. *V7W It^c TO jNatPENOAm PTOiSw/irT pt^A Pov^exSH/fTTirfkNtMis^. PfiniHSfS^ T Fig.9. One version of the Foxwell torque sensor suitable for large tractors up to 175 kW, and for scaling down to suit any size of engine and type of transmission; a driving hub is bolted to the engine flywheel and contains 12 sets of rectangular leafsprings which transmit power to the driven member, the two hubs being connected by ball bearings which permit limited relative movement between them under the deflection of the springs; in the embodiment shown, an engine drive disc with six radial fingers intermesh with six gaps cut in the front face ofthe driven member and interface with a Hall-effect position sensor which interacts with the on-board computer to measure engine torque; the initial shock load on the starter motor is cushioned because the engine is turned via the two sets of thicker springs. [Source: U.S. patent no. 5,485,757 dated Jan. 23,1996]. implement attachment system deflects the springs. A Hall- torque sensors will enable the problems for correction (three point linkageor effect position sensor scans brake power to be accurately before shippingthe engines to drawbar), and can also control the movement and sends the determined on the test bed the vehicle assembly plants. A an independent PTO drive information to the on-board and in the field. Therefore, the torque sensor in a tractor used with some manual computer to read out torque. tractor will have its own built could duplicate this inthe field. transmissions. It uses batches Speed sensors at the flywheel in dynamometer at all times The indicated power of an of thin rectangular cantilevered and output shaft of the and it can be used by the engine can be obtained by leaf springs fixed at their inner transmission read out dealer as a diagnostictool to monitoring the fuel flow with ends to make them immune to horsepower and torque at monitor engine performance. the new electronic control fuel the effect of centrifugal force. both locations. Byconnecting a portable systems. This issatisfactory as The springs take up very little computer to it over a period long as the engine remains lateral space and can be varied Torque sensing as a oftime and taking it back to healthy Just because fuel is in number and thickness to diagnostic tool the dealership for connection goinginto an engine, it does work with engines over a wide The power that an engine with a higher powered not mean that the fuel is being power range. In one version develops on a dynamometer is computer to analyse the used efficiently Ifan injector the first driving member, which not the same as the power it signature pulses of each fouls up, or a ring sticks,these contains the springs,is bolted develops when installed in a cylinder, any problems would malfunctions cannot be to the crankshaft and the tractor because the cooling be detected and remedial diagnosed because the second driven member is systems, air intake systems, action taken before indicated power is unchanged mounted to a ball bearing the exhaust systems, etc., are catastrophe of failure. One from that of a healthy engine. outer race ofwhich is completely different from each automotive engine mounted in the driving other Up to now. it has not manufacturer during the cold Making the tractor member so that both been possible to know testing of itsV8 engines drives tests more useful to members can revolve a limited precisely the actual engine the engine via a torque the farmer amount relative to each other brake power available. transducer and has uncovered Iftractors were equipped with as the torque of the engine However;flywheel mounted overtwo dozen specific flywheel mounted torque sensors, it would be especially various soils. There might be because the sensor monitors with metal and rubber tracks beneficial during the OECD different lists for a particular the implement draught load and bi-directional tractors as tests to compare the brake country or area. and the rolling resistance as well as many industrial power with the PTO power; Currently the farmer for well as the extra power earthmoving tractors: and if each test station was whom the tests are supposed required to climb a gradient: • allowsthe power of the equipped with dynamometers to provide information in • handles both close coupled tractor to be checked during capable of measuring the selectingand using tractors, is and long or heavy mounted homologation and power at each driven wheel, unable to determine from implements,such as one way regulatory checks; the efficiency of the drive them how they will perform in reversible ploughs because • reduces the pollution trains could be recorded in the his fields. With the the angle of the line of pull emitted by the tractor tests. Some multi-geared standardised graphs printed has no affect on the torque engine: transmissions and hydraulic out for the tractor under test sensor's performance: • improves fuel economy: pumps are very inefficient at and with the assurance that it • operates both front • reduces the need for the rated speed of the tractor does develop its advertised mounted and reverse extremely hightorque back and these power wasting units power he should easily, with or operated implements on the up engines,saving cost and would be uncovered.These without a personal computer, three-point hitch and protecting the transmissions transmissions and pumps determine exactly how to set controls their depth of cut: which have to absorb the noticeably increase in efficiency up the tractor for maximum • controls and maintains the high torques: when run at lower speeds efficiency in his own fields and tractors progress inthe field • works with torque which inflate the lugging ability with his own implements. when operating trailed converter transmissions figures noted in the OECD Further; manufacturers would implements on marginal and used in earthmoving tractors and Nebraska tests. have a standard method to rolling terrain: with front or rear blades; Actually ifthese rate their tractors and their • provides the tractive • enables the axle power to dynamometer efficiency and implements. They could also efficiency by comparingthe be accurately determined durabilitytests could be playa large part in securing axle power with the and shows up inefficient carried out, there would be no the data by working closely drawbar powen ifcombined transmissions,by replacing need to run the drawbar tests with the test stations in with a load sensing pin inthe test tracks with axle drive on concrete or tarmacadam, formulating the standards for tractor drawbar and a dynanometers for official which are labour intensive, the graphs and charts. The ground speed 'radar device, test purposes: except to check the comfort, annual worldwide fuel savings thereby allowing the driver • facilitates the presentation of drive by noise,general would be substantial as would to operate the tractor at a set ofstandard curves for handling, etc. They would be be the reduction in pollution. peak efficiency by using an different types of soils with replaced with a series of instrument panel display: certain implements, by graphs similar to those in the Conclusions • signals the gearshift providing accurate paper but based on axle In summary a flywheel located sequence of a powershift assessment ofthe axle power and brought up-to-date torque sensor: transmission it can power available, so making with field tests on different • provides the tractor with its automatically upshift or the Organisation for hard to soft soils for each of own built-in dynamometer downshift the transmission Economic Co-operation and the basic tractor drive capable of reading out the to suit the soil conditions Development (OECD) test configuration i.e. 2WD, FWA, power and torque of the either in conjunction with or reports easier to single tyres,duals,triples.4WD engine at all times,when without depth control of a understand: fixed, 4WD articulated and monitored along with engine tillage implement: • eliminates the need for track crawlers with metal and speed sensors: • senses the torque on a PTO testing and so enables the rubber tracks. Probablyonly • provides a diagnostictool shaft connected to a forage Nebraska tractor tests to be one typical tractor in each for detecting hidden harvester and signals the carried out year round. group needs to be problems with engine gearshift sequence of a tested.Once these are output: powershift transmission to References established,they would • provides a feedback into the suitthe densityof the crop Brock HL (1954). Tractor probably last for another forty engine's management system and prevent jamming the hitches and hydraulic years which is how long the for better control: cutting mechanism: systems. SAETransactions, present method of drawbar • saves the costs ofthe top or • significantly reduces wear 62, 186-195. testing has lasted. It would lower linksensing and tear on the tractor by McKeon CE Driveline also allow the Nebraska tests components: reducing the range of engine torque coupling for tractor to be carried out all year • controls the depth of cut of speed variations in the field: draft control. SAE paper no. round. mounted and semi-mounted • reduces initial shock on the 720710. At the same time, the implements more accurately starter motor (usingthe Gibbard S The Ford Tractor drawbar pulls ofvarious and more closely maintains Foxwell design),because the Story Old Pond Publishing, modern tillage implements the ground speed of the engine is turned via the 104Valley Road, Ipswich would be standardised so they tractor than is possible with torque sensing springs: IP14PA and Japonica Press, could be matched with the either top linkor lower link • works with all configurations Low Green Farm, Hutton, tractors as would typical sensing,especially when the of tractors, small and large, Driffield, EastYorksY025 weight transfer figures for ground conditions vary and from 2WD, FWA. 4WD. 9PX. mounted implements on when climbinggradients 4WD (articulated), crawlers 10 WNDWARDS SPRING 200! E-COMMERCE DLG approval for Accond Monopil z-commerce will account for Drecision drill over half ofthe globa Kvemeland's mechanical sugar beet drill, the Accord Monopill SE, has achieved exceptional practical results agrochemical trade by 2005 duringa recent field test by German agricultural institute DLG. Indoingso, the Accord precision drill has achieved The e-commerce revolution has hit the has been led by the diversified chemical DLGapproval for sowingcommercial $30 billion global agrochemical industry industry CheMatch.com and beet seeds into a conventionally Agrochemical manufacturers are ChemConnect.com. the two leading prepared seedbed. purchasing raw materials through Internet chemical industry ETEs, have provided Testing the drill's operational ability based ElectronicTrading Exchanges (ETEs). chemical companies and agrochemical in a 176 ha field found that the Farmers are buyinginputs on-line and are manufacturers with the opportunity to Monopill's percentage of missesare benefitting from Internet-based undertake spot purchases and chemical low, at 1.4%. while doubles were information providers. Distributors and contract auctions on-line. virtually non-existent at 0.4%- the dealers are also using Internet based ETEs AgroConnect.com hosts the first ETE latter earningthe drill full marks during to revolutionise the agrochemical specifically facilitating trade in agrochemical the evaluation test Inaddition, plant distribution network intermediates and active ingredients. Based emergence was considered very good 'E-commerce has started to have an in Singapore,AgroConnect.com provides at 88%, whileprecision placement of impact at every level of the agrochemical Chinese and Indian agrochemical industry from the purchasing of raw manufacturers with an ideal opportunity to seeds was found to be within a materials to the retail sale ofthe branded enter the global agrochemical market tolerance of +/- 20 mm. From an operator's point of view, product' says Philip Jarvis, author of a new AgroConnect.com also facilitatestrade in the DLGfound the drill to be easy to Agrow report. E-commerce:Opportunities branded crop protection products operate - filling and emptying of for the GlobalAgrochemical Industry presenting agrochemical distributors individual seed hoppers was said to be 'Moreover, we estimate that within five around the world with the opportunity to easy, as was the operation of the drill years e-commerce will account for more move excess branded stock. monitor; the setting of planting than halfof global agrochemicaltrade - Farmers are also benefitting from the e- equivalent to $ 15 billion of goods traded commerce revolution as e-businesses distances and the control and sequencingof tramlining. via electronic channels'. supplying crop protection products to the The DLG's report alsofoundthat The US is leading the way in Internet agricultural industry offer both 'content and planting depth and parallelogram clod based e-commerce, and US farmers have commerce'. Loss leader information deflector position were easy to adjust now had the opportunity to purchase services are used to attract potential agrochemicals on-line for one full growing customers to the profit generating while switchingbetween work and season. The report estimates that 10-15% 'commerce' aspects of the site. Loss transport positions was said to be leaders usually include news reports, easy to execute and took about five ofthe crop protection products used during the 1999-2000 season moved weather forecasts and market information. minutes to achieve. At speeds of up to 8 km/h,the through e-commerce channels at some The e-commerce facilities offered to Monopill'sseed placement in each point on their route down the distribution farmers include interactive business models row was found to be very accurate, chain,and that this figure isexpected to such as on-line auctions and Electronic Trading Exchanges, and more traditional and the level of emergence was said reach 50% by 2005. XSAg.com isthe on-line brochure type business models. to be very good - both areas in which leading US based e-business catering to the Monopill was awarded a the agrochemical distribution network. These e-commerce facilities provide XSAg.com operates as an Electronic farmers with the opportunity to purchase maximum score. Kvemeland'sAccord range of Trading Exchange, allowing buyers and inputs,including agrochemicals, and to sell precision beet drillsalso includes the sellers of agrochemical products to trade produce and livestockthrough Internet Optima - a pneumatic precision drill anonymously Anonymous on-line trading based farmer markets. The report concludes that, through designed as a modular machine. Such has enabled horizontal movement of every level of the agrochemical industry a construction enables growers to products between distributors and choose from a range of working between dealers, a channel not from the manufacturer to the distributor widths from 3 m up to 9.3 m, and economicallyviablethrough traditional to the end-usen e-commerce is already business practices. The first UKbased e- being used to reduce transaction costs and with a maximum of 18 rows. business facilitating trade in agrochemical increase competitive advantage. Within products, is globalfarmers.com five years e-commerce will grow from The report explains how the being seen as an alternative to traditional George Randies, sales director, development of Internet trading of business practices, to become the accepted Kverneiand (UK) Ltd. Tel:01744 chemical raw materials and intermediates method of business within the 853200. Fax: 01993-853400 NEWS SCAN nnovation at Smithfielc initiatives in working together efficiency pump station Tie Farm EnergyCentre with manufacturers and Contact: John Madigan, (FEC) unveiled sonneof A design including two 262 installers to improve energy Octagon Products, 3 Brindley the most up-to-date kW Caprari electric irrigation efficiencies. With reduced Close, Drayton Fields Business energy efficient technology at pump stations to extract margins across our industry, Park, Daventry, Northants, Smithfield 2000. water from I by 120 million the need to reduce costs is of NNII 5RP. Tel: 01327 Innovations included gallon reservoirs at Elveden paramount importance. It 677100. storage and control Farms, Norfolk. Due to a will, as ever,be agricultural equipment for bulbs,an large variance in water engineers such as those Product: Fabdec Ltd - electric irrigation pump demand, operational efficiency working with FECand the Veri-Kool milk pump station, a milk pump speed is a keyfactor Two fixed award winners, who will be speed control control and a new range of speed pumps and one the innovators improving agricultural fans. Veri-Kool can be installed to variable speed pump provide returns to the producers.' Through itsTrade work in conjunction with any control and balance the Membership Award Scheme, make of plate cooler and bulk system. Two output The winners the FECencourages members tank to further reduce the submersible pumps supply to submit new products and Project installation: temperature of the milk water directlyto the suction installations in energy Octagon Products - tulip before it enters the cooling manifolds at each station and innovation. There are two stores vessel. Test sites in both the use automatic speed control categories of award - project UK and Northern Ireland to ensure correct suction A design of storage and installation and product. An have proved that savings, of pressure. control equipment for tulip award ceremony took place up to 30% reduction in Unico Flux vector drives bulb stores at Spalding. The at Smithfield 2000 and the cooling costs can be achieved. and software jointly project incorporates the winningtechnology was Reduction of milk developed with Powerflow coordination of several highlightedthroughout the temperature prior to entering Services ensure the optimum engineering principles - show. the bulk tank cuts down on number of pumps operate in heating,cooling, The FEC is delighted to compressor run time, which response to the wide range of dehumidification and fresh air receive support from the reduces electricity costs. demand, ensuring maximum integration - through a single Institution of Agricultural • Increased plate cooler efficiency controller This equipment Engineers (lAgrE) to help efficiency • Energyreduction by using allows the monitoring of encourage development • Helps maximise efficiency electronic control/ drive motors, provides improved within the industry. Energy of bulk tanks system control for temperature efficiency is a key issue in the • Reduces runningcosts by • Reduced on-site installation manipulation and reduces future of farming and it's cutting down compressor time - packaged unit man-hours. essential that manufacturers run time • Easy integration with A menu-based controller are aware ofwhat the • Can be installed to work in existing systems offers a number of options for industry needs and for conjunction with any make • Energy savingpotential case of operation. There is farmers and growers to know of plate cooler and bulk • Ease of operation - menu great potential for energy what is available,' says FEC's tank driven controller allows efficient storage through an manager;Andrew Kneeshaw. • Proven savings of up to easy inputs of pressure set effective and accurate control We (encouraged) farmers 30% in cooling costs points and priming/start system. and growers to visit our stand, procedure • Consistent environmental discuss energy issues and find Contact: Brian Colley, Fabdec • Free standing condition ensuring crop out about the latest Ltd, Grange Road, Ellesmere, quality technology to help with Shropshire, SY12 9DG. Tel: Contact: Peter Billing,Caprari • Enhances disease control energy efficiency," adds Mr 01691 627200 Pumps (UK) Ltd, Caprari • Improved conditions for Kneeshaw. House, Bakewell Road, Orton retardation Mr Chris Whetnall, Chief The runners-up Southgate, Peterborough, • Reduction of man hours Executive ofthe Institution of Cambs, PE2 6XU. Tel: 01733 per year Project Installation: Agricultural Engineers, said: 371605. • Ease of operation Caprari Pumps (UK) Ltd The lAgrE is pleased to • Potential for energy - electrical irrigation continue its support of FEC's (continued) 12 UNDWARDS SPRING 200! Product: Soler & Palau - new range • Low noise motors insulated to IP 65/ Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, IPS 7RH. of agricultural fans class F standard Tel: 01473 626277. ensure good air circulation in stock sheds • Aluminium hubs for long term durabilty with low noise emissions and energy and heat dissipation efficient operation. Good heat dissipation • Rot-proof glass filled nylon blade through cost aluminium impeller hub and • Rated for single phase operation - Contact Pete Smith on the Trade rot proof plasticblades and wall plates. 3 phase optional Membership Av/ard Scheme at the • Designed for operation in ambients up Farm Energy Centre on 024 7669 • Improved levels of air movement and to 70] 6512 or email [email protected] energy efficiency Contact: Graham Mooney, Soler & • Specially manufactured motor to Palau Ltd, 19-23 Betts Avenue, ensure minimum energy use Helmut Claas Foundation announce first UKAwards ^T~he Helmut Claas year to help promote science per month for one year extremely valuable to the Foundation has and research in agriculture, by Andre Paul, who is from industry and brought announced that the granting awards to Guyana, won the first prize together several advanced first United Kingdom winners engineeringstudents for first for his work on the technologies. for an award are Andre Paul, a rate projects,research studies application of "precision The second prize was BEng Honours Agricultural or other publications inthe farming' technology for awarded to Alan Haycocks Engineering Student at agricultural engineeringfield. estimating sugar cane yield for his project at Harper Cranfield University (Silsoe), Two awards are made in and sucrose content in the Adams on computer and Alan Haycocks, who is a both Germany and the field. Andre Paul worked for modelling of the loads BSc Honours Agricultural United Kingdom, The first the Guyana Sugar induced by a tractor three- Engineering student at Harper prize is a grant of 200 Euros Corporation prior to arriving point linkage. Adams College. (approx. £120) per month for at Silsoe and the judges The assessors considered The Helmut Claas two years, and the second noted that the project was that both these projects were Foundation was created last prize isa grant of 200 Euros imaginative, potentially in different ways both excellent and well deserving of recognition by the Helmut Claas Foundation. Andre Paul receives his Claas Foundation award from IHeimut Claas (centre), Chairman of the Claas Group Supervisory Board, with (from left to right) his project supervisor Dr Peter Alan Haycock, awarded Crossley, and the UK judges Brian FInney CBE, Professor Brian Witney and Dr Dan Mitchell. second prize • NEWS SCAN Young Woman Engineer ofthe Year Aware Samantha Hubbard, Innovation. OfficerWeapon Engineering silver salver and a certificate. who works for Shotton Runner-up and winner of the Artificer at HMS Collingwood Jointly sponsored by the Paper Company pic in WISE/IBM prize (WISE - in Fareham, Hampshire. Karen Institution of Incorporated Flintshire, was presented with Women into Science and received a cheque for £300 and Engineers (HE) and the Caroline her prestigious national Award in Engineering) was Monika Sud, a certificate. Haslett Memorial Trust January at a special ceremony 23, from Reading,Berkshire. Winner of the 2000 Mary (CHMT) this year'sAward, once held in London at the RSA Monika, a full-time mechanical George Memorial Prize again, attracted a substantial (Royal Society for the engineering student and part- (offered to younger entrants number of high calibre encouragement of Arts, time Piping Designer with who, whilst academically eligible, contenders with a wide range Manufacturesand Commerce). Foster Wheeler Energy Ltd have yet to gain the experience of knowledge and experience The 27-year-old engineer based in Reading, received a and responsibility required for in electronic, electrical and received a cheque for £ 1,000, a cheque for £600 donated by the main Award) was Nicola mechanical engineering. The HE silver rose bowl and a certificate WISE/IBM and a certificate. Bradford, 22, a CoreTeam and CHMT have great pleasure from Lord SainsburyofTurville: A Prize for Special Merit was Member Lean Manufacturing at in congratulatingthe four Parliamentary Under Secretary also awarded to 29-year-old BAE SYSTEMS Marine in prizewinners on their of State for Science and Karen Phillips, a Chief Petty Scotstoun, Glasgow. Nicola achievements. received a cheque for £500, a HEALTH & SAFETY Company directors must be more accountable on health and safety "oday the Health and • ensure that individual there are still too manywho organisations publishing their SafetyCommission members ofthe Board don't. Directors must be health and safety record in (HSC) launched a recognise their personal accountable for their their annual report and I will public consultation on its draft liabilities and responsibilities organisations' health and be taking steps to ask Britain's code on health and safety under health and safety law; safety performance: this major enterprises to ensure responsibilities for company • make sure that all Board should be a cone requirement that they do so.' directors and Board members decisions reflect the of business activity, not an 'The cornerstone of good of public sector organisations. organisation's health and inconvenient 'add-on'. Health health and safety is effective The code aimsto help safety policy, especiallywhen and safetyperformance isjust partnership between directors to ensure that makinginvestment decisions as important as financial management, employees and health and safetyrisks arising on new equipment, performance. Quite simply, unions. The code makes clear from their organisations' premises and products, and those who cannot manage that directors must ensure activities are properly by doing business with health and safety, cannot that staff are consulted on all managed and that adequate companies who themselves manage. health and safety issues measures are taken to have sound health and Under current law, affecting the company.' protect both employees and safety policies and practices; individual directors and Mr Callaghan concluded: members of the public. • consult staff fully - viatrade managers can be prosecuted 'The British economy loses The draft code makes union representatives, if their actions - or lack of £ 18 billion a year through clear that Boards need to: where appropriate - on all them - lead to work-related workplace health and safety • accept joint responsibility health and safety issues, as deaths, illness or injury. The failures, while the cost in and leadership for their required by health and code seeks to ensure that terms of human suffering organisations' health and safety law; everyone at Board level cannot be measured. safety performance, • keep informed about - and recognise and acts on this Directors have a heavy providing a clear health and on top of - all health and responsibility.' responsibilitytowards both safetypolicy, and explaining safety issues affecting the Mr Callaghan added: their staff and members of how it intends to deliver its organisation and its 'Ignorance is no excuse. I the public, not to mention the health and safety objectives: performance. want to see allfirmstaking taxpayer who often picksup • appoint one Board member HSC Chair Bill Callaghan their health and safety the bill for negligent to champion health and said:'Many employers take responsibilities seriously - and performance.' safety issues; their health and safety this means at boardroom responsibilities seriously, but level. I would also like to see 14 WNDWAROS SPRING 2001 SCHOLARSHIPS CB Scholarships will boost the flow of Harper Adams Engineering Graduates CB, one ofthe best known people and is a significant professionals for the future.' procedures. Howeven names in British engineering, investment by jCB in the The jCB Engineering students applying for the isinvesting £750,000 over future of technological design Scholarships package will scholarships will be invitedto "ifie next four years in a joint and development' include: spend time at JCB venture with Harper Adams Paul Pritchand, Head of • A scholarship of £2,000 a headquarters for further University Collegeto boost Training and Development, year for each student assessment to determine their the flow of engineering jCB,sees the scholarship • Employment at JCB attitude, skills and abilities for graduates. scheme as an essential during vacation periods a career withinthe company The collaboration will initiative in the drive to attract • Employment at JCB On graduation,JCB promote engineering as an good students into during the sandwich year Scholars can expect to enter attractive option for students engineering. JCBwill sponsor an intake employment with the entering higher education and 'jCB has built a reputation of up to 12students a year on company For those who have will help scholars cope with for innovation and quality four-year engineering courses performed particularlywell in the increasingburden of engineering in the at HarperAdams. While their studies,the opportunity tuition and living expenses. construction and agricultural primarily directed at students will be available to applyfor a ProfWynne Jones.Principal markets and we are entering Harper Adams new JCBGap Year- a posting to of Harper Adams University committed to building on that Off-RoadVehicle Design one or more ofthe firm's College,is delighted with the Our future growth plans, Degree, applicants will also be overseas bases. The first JCB joint venture. within a competitive world considered for other courses Scholars will enter Harper This is a tremendous marketplace, demand that we including: Adams in October 2001. initiative byJCB. It sends a continue to employ and • Agricultural Engineering strong signal to school leavers develop high-calibre • Agricultural Engineering that there is a real demand for individuals. Our initiative with with Marketing and high qualityengineers and that Harper Adams University Management Geoffrey Wakeham, Harper Adams isthe College should ensure that • Engineering Design and Engineering Course appropriate place for their together; we can encourage Development Manager, Harper Adams education. The scholarship more students to enterthe Selection ofstudents will University College, scheme will help the industry excitingworld of engineering be carried out in conjunction Newport, Shropshire TFIO attract the best possible and thus nurture top class with Harper Adams normal 8NB. Tel: 01952 820280. ENVIRONMENT Access to environmental solutions at the fingertips of British business •unding by the international community to searchable Greentie database For more details ofthe •Government's joint assist businesses in developing available on the intemet to Greentie Database or, ifyou Environmental Markets countries to achieve give UK business access to are a supplier of Unit (jEMU) has now given UK sustainable growth and suppliers ofservices covering: environmental products or business managers access to development by providing Air Pollution and Control services,to register your environmental solutions offered easy access to suppliers of Contaminated Land company on the database free by companies from around the environmental products and ' Marine Pollution of charge, please go direct to globe. Access to this network services, it quickly became Recovery and Recycling the Greentie Website: ofover 8,000 Consultancies apparent that businesses in the Energy Efficient and www.etsu.com/greentie or and Equipment Suppliers is developed world lacked the Renewable Energy through the Greentie website same basic information. Technologies (www.etsu.com/greentie^or via Respondingto this need, JEMU Waste Management Mike Morrell, a CD-Rom. were at the forefront of a Waste and Waste Water Teh 01235 433564. emaih Originally created by the drive to make the fully Treatment [email protected] 15 NEWS SCAN WOODLANDS Community forest regeneration work advances woodland were opened •he latest Annual combination of a strategic instance,significant progress Monitoring Report of vision, an integratedapproach continues to be made up for recreation and the Community Forest to area based planning, and opening up non-woodland access. Since 1991, Programme,which has been partnerships between the areas for access and 11413 ha have been presented to the Department public, privateand voluntcuy recreation particularly on the made available for public of Environment,Transport and sectors, can deliver real urban fringe where there is a access. the Regions, reconds another benefits close to where demand for informal Nearly 750 km of linear year of achievements for this, people live. recreation, community routes were !"estored, the UK's largest,environmental New woodland planting of involvement and nature upgraded or created. In regeneration initiative. 1200hectares brings the total conservation. Work is also total, there are now over Inthe year 1999-2000, to over il % of the long teim, undeiway transforming 5750 km of routes in England's tvs/elve Community 30-50 yeartarget. Over 1400 dosed landfill sites and good condition. Forests created new hectares of existing woodland reclaimingthe land for forest Just under 875 ha of v^oodland and revitalised old were brought into related uses. non-woodland habitat woods across an area management for the first were created or brought equivalent to 19 times the time, with the result that 93% Achievements for into good management. size of London's Hyde Park, of existingwoodlands within 1999/2000 Over 170 km of and also opened up access to Community Forests are now • Nearly 1200 ha of new hedgerow were planted other woodland and open under some foim of woodland were planted, or brought into areas equivalent in size to structured, sustainable bringng the total planted management. SI2 0!dTrafforti management. Over 1300 since 1991 to 7419 ha. Over 260 ha of derelict (Manchester) cricket grounds. hectares of woodlands were • Over 1400 ha of existing land were reclaimed for This work has been carried opened up for public woodland were brought forest-related uses. out in and around major recreation and access, into management for the Nearly £7 million was cities and towns. providing real opportunities first time, with the result received in the form of The 12 Community for local people to benefit that 93% of established sponsorship, donations, Forests are now established directly. woodland within the support in-kind and and delivering real benefits Community Forests are, Community Forests is landfill tax. for the local and regional however; more than just now under some form of Neariy £18 million was environment and economy. about trees. They are about a structured management secured from non- The Programme wide range of other land regime. forestry sources such as demonstrates how the types and land uses. For Over 1300 ha of the National Lottery Management changes atJohn Deere Deere &Company has announced increased customer and market Association. that Alec McKeewill be taking up development support on a global scale.' Clay Sherrill is a graduate ofWofford a new position as vice president, After gaining an NDA from Harper College and gained an MBA from Georgia worldwide marketing inthe company's Adams Agricultural College in 1967 and State University before joining Deere & agricultural division, based in the USA at an NDAgrE from Writtle College of Company in 1977, He held a variety of Lenexa, near Kansas City Agriculturein 1968, Alec McKee worked marketing roles in different North He is being replaced at John Deere for four years with a John Deere American sales branches before becoming Limited by ClaySherrill, who is currently distributor in Zambia. Minneapolis sales branch manager in 1998. sales branch manager of the Minneapolis He joined John Deere Limited in 1972 1 am looking forward to learning about branch in the USA. The appointments are as a trainee territory manager, becoming a the business in the UK and Ireland, and to effective from I st February 2001. territory manager in 1973, business settling my family here in the next few 1 have had 28 very happy years management adviser in 1974,credit months,' said Clay Sherrill, who is married working for John Deere Limited, the last manager in 1975 and commercial manager with two children. 'Europe is more eight as managing director;' said Alec in 1979, He was subsequently appointed advanced in some ways than the USA, McKee. 'A major part of my new general sales manager in 1991.and particularly with regard to more intensive responsibility will be to ensure that we became managing director of John Deere use of machinery and the highly have the right products to meet our ever Limited in February 1993. Alec is a past competitive nature ofthe marketplace - it changing customer needs, and to provide president of the Agricultural Engineers promises to be an exciting challenge.' 16 LANDWARDS SPRING 200! Training success for AgTech apprentices L. From left to right: Brooksby Melton College machinery lecturer Richard Trevarthen;AgTech student David Price of Palmers Agricultural; Brooksby Melton College machinery lecturer Phil Spencer:AgTech student MichaelStrange from Masons of Chudleigh; and John Deere Ltd manager, customer support Peter Leech. Both students are displaying their recently awarded City & Guilds Medal of Excellence, the only two given to agricultural engineers in the latest of these annual national awards. The roll call of successfulAgTech run by machinery lecturers Richard I echnicians graduating through the graduates who have gone on to achieve Trevarthen and Phil Spencer of Brooksby John Deere AgTech programme prestigious national awards reflects the Melton College and funded by will now have the best overall quality of the training they receive. Latest Leicestershire TEC. first started in 1992 qualifications of any agricultural engineering recipient of a City & Guilds f^edal of and won a NationalTraining Award at the apprenticeship. Excellence for the NVQ Level 2 training end of 1997. These include the BAGMA/City & programme is David Price of Palmers It offers three years of'on-the-job' Guilds of London Institute 4024 Agricultural in Maidstone, while Michael training with block release at Brooksby Agricultural/Groundcare Service Strange from Masons of Chudleigh won a Melton College, which also includes Engineers NVQ Level 2 & 3 Certificates Medal of Excellence for Level 3. the first regularattendance at the John Deere and the John Deere AgTech Certificate. time a John Deere AgTech student has trainingcentre at Langan A fourth year of Successful completion of the fourth achieved this level. special training leadsto the John Deere year of the programme will also now Over half a million candidates AgTech Diploma. qualify technicians for Associate complete a City & Guilds qualification The programme continues to attract Membership of the Institution of each yean and only 205 medals were young agricultural apprentice engineers Agricultural Engineers, and registration as most recently awarded, with David Price from John Deere dealerships across the EngTech withThe Engineering Council, and Michael Strange the only two country A total of 90 have now qualified provided free by John Deere. agricultural engineers to win national since the programme began,and another 'Only by setting an example of Medals of Excellence. 56 are currently undergoing training. professional excellence within the Medals of Excellence at Level 2 have company can we expect our dealer and also been awarded previouslyto Carl John Deere trained personnel to receive Pitelen of Ben Burgess & Co, Non^ich the professional recognition that they (1997) and James Paterson of Lawrence Peter Leech, John Deere Ltd, Langar, deserve,' says Peter Leech,John Deere (Farm Equipment) in Berkshire (1996). Nottingham NGI3 9HT. Tel:01949 Ltd's manager customer support. The John Deere AgTech programme. 860491. Fax:01949 B60490. NEWS SCAN Research ustifies ap straps on tractors "V/enty-seven tractor Agriculture and Wood Sector wherever there is a risk of • HSE is currently running an drivers have died in the said:'The research clearly overturning.' AgricultureWorkplace last ten years as a result supports the HSEview that HSEinvestigatedtractor Transport campaign to of ejection from the cab in an fatalities and serious injuries overturns show it does not reduce transport related would be reduced by the take steep slopes to turn a deaths which are the highest overturn. Nev\/ research widespread use of lap belts by machine oven Ground cause offatalities in the conducted for the Health and tractor drivers. The extent of conditions and attached industry SafetyExecutive (HSE) by the injuries isgreatly reduced and equipment are often the main Contact: HSE Agriculture Transport Research Laboratory, the likelihood of being ejected factors. Halfof all investigated Information Sheet No 37 and announced at the Royal from the cab and subsequently tractors turnovers occur on Operator seat restraints for Smithfield Show,suggests lap crushed, reduced to a slopes of 10 degrees or less. mobile equipment in straps for tractor drivers would minimum. • Most tractor seats have agriculture and forestry gives have prevented this total. 'It was also interesting to mounting points for lap belts more information and advice. The research used learn that the unrestrained even ifthey are not fitted as It is available free from HSE computer modellingto driver was often thrown against standard. Lapseat kitscan Books. Tel: 01787 881 165. compare injuries suffered by the cab door facing backwards. be purchased relatively drivers when usinga lap strap The computer modelling cheaply or not. Tests were based on a showed this was due to a • Full seat belts can only be modern tractor and cab and combination ofa strong fitted under the direction of Copies of the Research were validated against real life sideways impact force, a slight the manufacturers. This is Paper CRR no 310 'The overturns ofthe same forward momentum and an because the framework of effectiveness of lap straps specification tractor usinga unexpected twisting action on the cab cannot legally be as seat restraints on crash test dummy to establish the driver's body The result is welded or drilled. tractors in the event of the forces involved. Typical the full body weight of the • Seat restraints must not be overturning' ISBN 0 7176 overturning scenarios taken driver is flung againstthe cab fitted to a machine without 1909 5 price £20, are from real life accidents were doon which helps explain how roll over protection, available from HSE Books, used in the tests. the cab door is so easilyburst otherwise the operator will PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Results showed greater open during overturning almost certainly be crushed Suffolk. CO10 2WA. Tel: head,neck and spinal injury accidents. in an overturn. 01787 881165. Fax: 01787 forces for unrestrained drivers. 'There is no doubt that lives • Improved lap belt design has 313995. Priced Only one force, spinal axial would be saved and injuries overcome initial objections publications are also tension (lower back) was reduced iffarmers fitted lap that they were too available from all good higher for drivers using lap belts to tractors and drivers restrictive and prevented bookshops. belts. wore them when working on drivers turning to watch Greg BungayHead of slopes, silage clamps or machinery REGISTRATIONS 1999 UK tractor Manufactvarer Units % ofTotal JohnDeere 2,958 25.5 registrations - New Holland 2,329 20.0 Case* 2,296 19.8 company share 1999 AGCO »♦ 1,589 13.?: Renault 506 4.4 The data analysed are tractor units registered for road use under the Department ofTransport body code Valtra 394 3.4 'agricultural tractor. Almost all tractors sold into JC3B 289 2.5 agriculture are registered. However;it should be Others 1,260 10.8 noted that small tractors (e.g. below 30 kW) are sold in various markets and not all are registered. Total 11,621 100.0 * Case includes Steyr ♦♦ AGCO includes Massq^Feigu^n and Fendt Data includes compact tractors (30 kW or under) and agricultural tractors (over 30 kW). Data released after one year delay.Source:A.E.A. IB LANDWARDS SPRING 2001 Quarterly SPRING 2001 MEMBERSHIP MAHERSTHE NEWSLETTER OF THE INSTITUTION OF AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS AGRICULTURE ENGINEERING - PAST, PRESENT AND WHERE TO NEXT? at the global changes in "he conference was agricultureand the food organised by the industry with his presentation Northern Ireland "Food forThought". Mr Shaw Branch ofthe institution of Agricultural Engineeringto is Director of Shaw"s Farms Ltd in Ireland and Australia celebrate not only a and chairman of a number of millennium year but also the food and farming 21St anniversary of their'Tull organisations. He was certainly branch status". well qualified to look at the The event was held at the "Global" food situation and by prestigious Kings Hall using some now infamous Conference Centre. Balmoral. quotes, he illustrated that Belfast on the afternoon of 24 progress requiredthe need for Febnjary 2000 and attracted lateral vision and change. In a around 70 farmers, Northern Ireland context he contractors and machinery showed how agricultural dealers. outputs are steadily dropping The title said it all.The aim while in the manufacturing ofthe conference was to sector there is generally a review the developments in ilSSfe steady increase in output. In agricultural engineering in the the "New Consumer Society" The Chairman of the Northern Ireland Branch, Mr Hugh Mcllvenna at past century (including prioritieswere changing. We the vintage tractor display outside the conference venue. reference to the contribution now lived in a "global village" made by Northern Ireland) with the emphasis on lifestyle - provide the solutions.Thanks Martin, who looked at some and then to look at what is not class, service - not goods. to the excellent slides, facts developments in agricultural happening now and where it Mr Shaw introduced the machinery with a focus on goes from here. and statistics galore were used expression "Time Poverty" effectively to illustrate his Plough,Sow. Reap and Mow. The Branch Chairman where time consuming thoughts on the issuesthat Mr Martin is the former Head Hugh Mcllvenna welcomed activities such as shopping, of Agricultural Engineeringat everyone and in particular the would determine the future in cooking and cleaning are Greenmount College and well conference speakers. Session agriculture and the food getting pushed out as industry not only in Nl but known locally as an historian chairman Terrence Chambers supermarkets, fast food, recipe with a particular knowledge of introduced the first speaker also on the world market, meals, internet shopping etc. Harry Ferguson, On this Mr Derek Shaw, who looked The next speaker was Bill NEWS for MEMBERS occasion he started at "grass roots" agricultural engineering with a unique look at plough developments from animal powered wooden implements LONG SERVICES CERTIFICATES through steam ploughs and 50 years gyrotillers to the Ferguson Name Grade tractor/plough phenomenon. John Shewring lEng FlAgrE 23 Jan 2001 He continued to follow the Keith Edgar Morgan CEng FlAgrE 1 Feb200l cyclethrough seeders, mowers Randolph William Ladbrooke lEng FlAgrE 20 Feb 2001 and harvesters, all illustrated with excellent slides. 35 years Before the mid afternoon Anthony Arthur William Chestney CEng MIAgrE 13Jan 2001 tea breakTerrence Chambers RobertTunstall Lindsay lEng MIAgrE 13 Jan 2001 chaired a discussion with Cyrii Ananda Rajastnghe Molligoda EngTech MIAgrE 13 Jan 2001 Johnston, founder of Cyril David Fleetwood Ellam FIAgrE 13 Jan 2001 Johnston Farm Machinery Ltd Edward Stewart Escourt Southcombe CEng FIAgrE 13 Jan 2001 and John Cleland. former David Llewellyn Bebb FlAgrE I3jan 2001 machinery sales manager with PeterWilliam Carpenter MIAgrE 13 Jan 2001 Kennedy's of BallymenaThis James William Mason EngTech MIAgrE 13Jan 2001 was a fascinating and Brian Terence Webb lEng MIAgrt 13Jan 2001 humorous journey through the lives oftwo men who had 25 years collectively been involved in Keith David Broomer EngTech MIAgrE 5 Jan 2001 the farm machinery business in John VashonTyrwhittWheeler CEng FIAgrE Bjan 2001 Nl for over 100 years. John Gwyn Bumby MIAgrE 5 Feb 2001 Chairman Bertie Hunter David John Mattey EngTech MIAgrE 15 Feb 2001 then introduced Dr Mike Kelly, David John White CEng FIAgrE 1 Mar 2001 Head of Farm Building Design William Waddilove lEng MIAgrE 2 Mar 2001 atThe ScottishAgricultural Brian Frank Fraser-Smith ClAgrE 6 Mar 2001 Colleges. Dr Kelly gave his Stephen Allen Clark lEng MIAgrE 6 Mar 2001 viewson the developments in Robert Lockhart MIAgrE 25 Mar 2001 farm buildings with particular John Frederick Scott lEng MIAgrE 25 Mar 2001 reference to what was happening at SAC. He emphasised how the current economic climate in farming had impacted on low cost at the trends over the past few Agricultural Engineers, has vast and improved housing. He explained the years, he predicted what knowledge and experience tractor/implement efficiency complex interaction between would happen in the next 15 gained from his work at the with built in diagnostic and social, structural and climatic years in dairy farms, dry-stock SilsoeCollege wing of servicing facility conditions and cited a number farms and arable farms. He Cranfield University and he did The conference was a great of specific examples of how touched on GPS and yield not disappoint in giving success thanks to the quality of better design and layoutcould mapping but felt that in Ireland comprehensive coverage of the speakers and their optimise these and minimise there will always be problems the subject in his own presentations. Credit also to costs. He finished by with wet crops, work inimitable style.With excellent the ambitious and hard concluding "The agricultural interruptions and small fields, In visual aid slides,he started by working committee and in industry will need to cope with general, land use would see looking at cultivation and particular branch secretary an ever increasing rate of little change but there would establishment costs and John Mawhinney who attended change so the industry must be a big change in the farm systems. "Work the top few to all the details relating to the be highly receptive to change." structure with fewer units, inches with skill rather than the speakers and their slide Bernard Rice is the Head of fewer machines and more whole profile with presentations.Thanks also to Agricultural Engineeringat Oak contracting ofwork with large horsepower" was his message. the many sponsors who Park Research Centre, Carlow specialised equipment. He predicted that the future helped make it possible and to and he presented an Irish The final speaker was would see an ever-increasing members of the Northern perspective on "The future of Professor Dick Godwin who use of electronics. Professor IreiandVintage Association for Farm Mechanisation." Aided by spoke on "Future Advances in Godwin dealt in detail with the providing tractors for the static an excellent slide presentation, Agricultural Engineering." further developments in tractor display. Mr Rice looked first of all at Professor Godwin, a Past "Precision farming", advances the social and economic President of the Institution of in tractor ergonomic design Harry Barr pressures for change. Looking 2 MEMBERSHIP HAHERS SPRING 2001 LEnER TO THE EDITOR Dear Sir, early 1970'safter we had builtsome care about the future of Ag Eng Thank you for publishing my piece 20 prototypes. Ithink we passed the education and training in UK(ifonly as about tractors and for extending to Reece 'paper test' of having a new a means of helping the developing me the opportunity of debate with concept but the ag-detail side left lots world) we should perhaps consider some true professionals inAg Eng. to be desired. At Silsoe they made us what made Newcastle Ag Eng in-part Havingwritten a short explanation plough and JamesAnderson (a Scottish so progressive and NIAE (as it was) so of the main concepts which have farmer) did well (with strakes) but why bureaucratic and narrow-minded? caused HST Developments Ltd., on earth did these Silsoe Ag people Whilst Alan Reece's paper of 1970 (Trantor) to try to change the world want us to plough? Simple reallythey reflects much ofwhat is excellent of tractor design (in addition to could then see how poor the about the Ag Engprofession,the originatingJCB Ltd'swork on the transport-first tractor was. compared massive wastage of R and D funds (e.g. Fastrac and helping them to appreciate to those wondrous ploughers! In the spent by NIAE on the farm transport the significance of all-round suspension first decade of transport-first tractor vehicle) is a good example of how not from 1982-1984), Iwas thrilled to be development, these 2 days were the to invest for the future of industry reminded of the paper; published tn most discouraging of events which,we Modern policy makers concerned with October 1970 inAgricultural Engineer learned later were par for the course, our industrial future have to be byAlan R. Reece entitled,The Shape for innovators.The lunch and tea menu supportive of invention, innovation and ofThe FarmTractor' which was but of humble pie was. however; a little entrepreneurship (the lifeblood of our one of the many interesting topics to excessive! future) and they have to be able to be enlightened bythe then Reader (?) How different it was at Newcastle. find it by visiting small firms who are in the Ag Eng Department of The department assembled and gave backing a hunch without too clear an Newcastle University our two speakers a most enjoyable idea where its leading - except that it's Reading Alan Reece's paper again ride for they teased and joked and forwards! recently and properly for the first time generallyunderstood that the Trantor Alan Reece's paper was not only (I)and later askingmy secretary to team were reasonably intelligent far-sighted but his statement, 'There are type rt (for e-mail transmission to people trying to change the world of powerful conservative forces at work some overseas friends) Iwondered if tractors - without any success! Our discouraging the attempt to radically our tiny company's work at all view,'suspension is significant for off advance tractor design!' contains more measured up to this most significant of road and on-field!!' was not contested than a modicum of wisdom!! papers written so long ago? but our 3 point linl NSTITUTION MEMBERSHIP CHANGES Admissions Associate Associate Member Engineering Council D M Carless (Gloucestershire) S S M Davies (Shropshire) Associate Member BJ Freeman (Essex) L KJordan (Ireland) R G Copland (Orkney) Registrations S j Hunt (Essex) D Sayer (North Yorkshire) D J Dobson (Lancashire) C Jones (Shropshire) CEng M M Hay (Renfrewshire) Deaths RW Langley (Essex) P D Lawson (Lincolnshire) Transfers C L Fox (Lincoln) EJ Ratcliffe (Staffordshire) PE May (North Lincolnshire) MS Gill (London) Member CA Moulis (Lincolnshire) JA Hellier(Essex) EngTech J R Speir (Nottinghamshire) RJ Brindle (Staffordshire) D G L Monnington (Sussex) J Cowie (Fife) MA Strange (South Devon) RW Causer (New Zealand) J D Walton (North Yorkshire) A Goodall (WestYorkshire) NEWS for MEMBERS NEWS OF MEMBERS n response to the request, in vacation. Two years ago,he and Division. The Imaging Division while jet fuel poured out of the the News of Members his wife decided to apply for specialise in the combined engines and the crew checked column in the last issue of residency visaswhich would application of lasers and high off their baggage tickets. The Landwards, for members to allow them to stay inAustralia speed imaging to develop airline office staff assured them contact me with their news, I indefinitely. After a long wait solutions for customers. They that the plane would be have had a very interesting letter they were notified that their provide products within the repaired in time for the from John Coleman. John has application had been successful areas of high speed imaging, PIV afternoon flight, but he decided been a member ofthe and started preparing velocity measurement, that he would try to catch a bus Institution for 51 years. themselves for the move. particle/drop sizing and flame to La Paz and then head offto Although supposedly retired 20 Having both given up their jobs penetration imaging. Peru. years ago, he is still working in the UKand not having Applications for Oxford Lasers Philip arrived back in the UK harder than ever;and he says anything particular lined up,they products range from Agricultural at the beginning of June and "why not -1 am only 80 years decided to take an extended (droplet/particle analysis), immediately went out to old". John was President ofthe holiday and travel overland to Automotive (combustion Pakistan as a member ofthe Agricultural Engineers Australia. They are now settled processes and injector Anglo New Zealand Hindu Raj Association in 1978 and chaired in Australia and are in the performance).Welding Climbing Expedition. Their four the Smithfield Show Joint process of setting up their own processes (visualisation of arc) man expedition was funded by Committee in the same yean company offering the Magnascan and Aerospace (aero engines the Sports Council and the Having sold and withdrawn from system of non-invasive soil and blade breaks). As Sales Mount Everest Foundation, the chairmanship of Coleman mapping to fanners and amenity Engineer; he is responsible for which was approved by a International in 1981, he started turf users. Martin jointly liaison between customers and committee ofwell known John E Coleman Associates, a developed the Magnascan the Imaging Division, and the climbers including Sir Chris consultancy advisingon system for his former employer development of system solutions Bonnington. The team visited an marketing of agricultural in the UK,ASE Solutech Ltd of to suit customer requirements. unexplored valley in the North mechanisation and finding Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. West Frontier Province, close to outlets for farmer inventors. Martin's company is also a Congratulationsto Philip the Afghanistan border; and John is now very busy for a distributor for the American Amos who completed his MSc made the first ascent of a Dutch company who farm management software in Environmental Engineering at previously unclimbed 6000 m manufacture agricultural drain package "Farmworks". Newcastle University in peak. They had hoped to climb cleaning equipment. There is a September 1999,graduating more of the surrounding peaks steady market in the UKwhere M Mutema is at present doing with distinction, and was also but were hampered by maintaining subterranean drains a PhD in soil science in the awarded the Severn Trent Prize unseasonably bad weather by low pressure jetting is Department of Agriculture and for best Environmental which kept them rain bound at accepted as an urgent necessity. Food Science at Reading Engineering Student He has base camp for a week where He is also involved in a Dutch University. sincetaken a break year to they played endless games of innovative weeder which has a travel in New Zealand and cricket with the local goatherden front mounted patented steering Congratulations to Seamus D South America,arriving in Chile Since returning home Philip control system. John is able to Murphy, who graduated with a ten days after Pinochet's return has taken up a position as an advise client companies on Doctorate of Engineeringfrom home, and then travelling Environmental Engineer in the setting up distributors and Cranfield University Silsoe inJuly overland through Bolivia to Peru. Edinburgh office of Cuthbertson organising demonstrations. 2000. The doctorate was Philip had an eventfuljourney Maunsell Limited. His work is Thank you John for this sponsored by Silsoe Research through Bolivia. Roads were primarilyfocused on design, information, and we hope that Institute and the Engineeringand blockaded in protest at rising restoration and environmental you will continue to enjoy Physics Science Research water and fuel prices and poor management of landfill sites in working. Council. The title of the living conditions. As a result, Scotland, although the company doctorate is"spray transport road transport was impossible also has ongoing work in Martin Peters made his first from a moving boom" which is a so he decided to fly to the Antigua and Vietnam. trip to Australia for his work study of the combined effects of capital La Paz,with the experience year in 1994,whilst agricultural sprayer boom design commercial branch ofthe Tony Chestney he was an undergraduate and sprayer nozzles on spray Bolivian Air Force. However; the student at Silsoe College. He drift. plane sped off the end of the Write to Tony with your news! says that he immediately fell in In December 2000 Seamus runway and suffering from His address is: love with the country (lifestyle, left Silsoe Research Institute and shock, he and fellow passengers 32 Beverley Crescent, culture, climate and people) and joined Oxford Lasers as a Sales stumbled out of the plane and Bedford returned a further 4 times on Engineer; within the Imaging • waited next to the wreckage MK40 4BY Produced by; LandTechnology Ltd.Edinburgh Printed by: Barr Printers, Glenrothes INSTITUTION of AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS, WEST END ROAD, SILSOE, BEDFORD, MK45 4DU, UNITED KINGDOM. Tel: 01525 861096 Fax: 01525 861660 • • NEWS SCAN BUSINESS Time is running out for 27% of theAgri- Machinery Industry Over a quarter of all UK agri- profit targets, acquisition activity market share and sales growth machinery companies will not could intensify in 2001. average for the latest period is see out 2001 in their present The First Edition 2001, showing an average decline of shape, according to Plimsoll describes four types of company 12.7%. Their margins are slim at To order a copy of the First Publishing. Identified in their strategy The Winners have low 0.6%on average and almost Edition 2001 Plimsoli new First Edition 2001, Plimsoll borrowings (debt) as a 40% of them are loss making. Portfolio Analysis; Agri- Portfolio Analysis, they are percentage of sales and have They have borrowed to stay in Machinery for 305, please predicting in 2001 these losers high sales growth. The Chancers the market, but how long can call Jennifer Ovington on will disappear, be taken over or have high borrowings and high this strategy be maintained? 01642 257800. Or for a full be forced to change to stay in sales growth. The Sleepers have The publication contains the version of this particular the market. low borrowings and low sales most up-to-date analysis of772 research visit The analysis, which included growth. The Losers have high UK agri-machinery companies www.plimsoll.co.uk. Readers 772 companies in total, predicts borrowings and are growing covering their latest four years of of this publication can that theWinners and the below average. trading. Presented in a one-page obtain a 5% discount by Chancers,who are capturing For these 151 Losers, time is per company format, setting into mentioning this article upon market and profits with a running out. Their level of debt context the strengths and ordering. combined sales growth average is high at 25.6% of sales on weaknesses of each company of over 14.6% are pushingthe average. A more sensible couldn't be simpler Inaddition, Losers out ofthe market. As average would have been about it isa great tool for searching they try to maintain sales and I I%. These companies have lost acquisition prospects. TAKEOVER CNH sells UKTractor Plant to Landini CNH Global has reached an agreement for the sale of its tractor manufacturing plant in Doncaster, England, to Landini S.p.A.The sale,which is in accordance with the European Commission's approval of the business merger of New Holland and Case Corporation in 1999, is subject to final approval bythe European Commission. n addition to the the Doncaster plant to be sold Maxxum tractors for CNH sellsits products in 160 manufacturing facility, the by Case IH outside the EEA distribution in other markets markets through a network of agreement includesdesign, under a supply agreement that around the world. More more than 10,000 dealers and and manufacturing rightsto the CNH negotiated with Landini. details about this agreement distributors. CNH products C, CX and MX-C tractor lines, Through a manufacturing will be provided following are sold under the following as well as commercial rights in agreement with CNH, Landini approval by the European brands: Case, Case IH, Fermec, the European EconomicArea will produce for Case IHthe Commission. Fiatallis, Fiat-Hrtachi, Link-Belt (EEA). It also includes sale of MX Maxxum middle power With strong global brands, (earth-moving equipment). the McCormick brand name to range tractors in the CNH is a leader in the New Holland, New Holland Landini. Landini intends to sell Doncaster plant,and inthe agricultural equipment, Construction, O&Kand Steyn these tractors underthe Case IH brand, for Case IH construction equipment and McCormick brand. The C, CX dealers traditionallysupplied financial services industries and and MX-C tractors will from Doncaster CNH will had combined 1999 revenues continue to be produced at continue to produce MX of approximately$ 11 billion. 19 FOOD PROCESSING Packaging fresh mangoes for export Fedenco Hahn MANGO Introduction food and can be used as an Mango is an exotic fruit grown alternative to frozen and in tropical countries. Mexico canned products. Fruit drying was the first exporter of fresh is simple and easy and several mangoes, in the world. It is dehydration techniques are now the second largest available. Many products are producer just behind India, dried under natural selling over three times more atmospheric conditions, but than the Philippines. Although using furnaces to control most of the fruit is exported temperature, moisture and fresh, huge quantities are lost airflow variables increases its due to its short sheif life. efficiency It is difficult to Dr Federico Hahn is a Processed mango products distinguish between natural Technological Assessor at CIAD, have an increased shelf life and and high quality dried fruits. Apartado Postal 32-A, Culiacan, so add economic value to the The characteristics of the Sinaloa 80129, Mexico, and is commodity. Cost and quality dehydrated product include: involved in the development of competitive mango products • the same nutritional machines for processing food are being sought and several components as the fresh and of sensors for food quality. processing plants are being product; E-mail: installed in the country The • the provision of a sterilised [email protected] main processed products product: obtained from mango are: • a reduction in size to half • dehydrated mango: the volume: and • pure mango: • a reduction in weight to • mango nectan one quarter of the fresh Fruit drying is one of the product weight oldest methods for storing The world global 20 UHOWARDS SPRING 2001 competence is intense and for misalignment of several fruits dried mango the worid market caused many stones to be cut 7 IS controlled by the Asian (Fig, I), To reduce this countries, mainlyThailand, the occurrence, an automatic Philippines and India. In mango sizerwas elaborated Mexico,dried mango is and used a laser scanner becoming a popular product (Hahn. 1998). and more than ten Mango processing is dehydration plants are now increasingday by day and established. automation is required, To increase efficiency in especially when no manual production, further labour is available. For pulp 1. development of more and juice, a pulper is used to ^1 accurate and automated separate the fruit pulp from \ processes is required. the stone and the peel. The pulper is a mill, which rotates 4 4 Fig.2. Manual cutting and destoning Table I. Percentages of pulp, stone and peel for different varieties on mango fruits Cullivar Weiglu, Pulp, Pee!. Seed, fi % % % Edward 473.4 76.1 17.2 6.7 Haden 297.2 69.5 21.2 9.4 Manila 209.3 65.9 20.3 13.8 Tommy Atkins 374.5 76.2 14.1 9.7 Kent 486.0 74.9 14.7 10.4 Keitt 433.8 74.2 15.3 10.5 product consistency Mangoes are cut with knives Peeling and stone extractingthe stones. The extraction are the most remaining mango cheeks Fig. I. Mango cut through the stone expensive processes during contain the pulp that is mango dehydration due to the extracted with a tablespoon intensive manual labour (Fig.2), A very skilful worker Existing mango at 600 rpm, pressing the required. During mango cuts 500 kg of mangoes per destoning machine product against a stainless drying,20 tonnes of mangoes day which corresponds to In an earlier system, using steel screen. The pulp that have to be peeled and 1500-2000mangoes depending gravity, mangoes fell through crosses the screen is pumped destoned to produce one on their size. Therefore 40 vertical tubes direaed over to other equipment for tonne of dried fruit. Half of skilful workers are required to disk blades, which then thermal treatment and further the fresh mango weight cut the 20 tonnes of mangoes, destoned the fruit The processing according to the accounts for the peel and so that a further 40 workers mangoes firstly had to be final product desired. Mango stone, but varies with the can peei them. With the manually sorted by size to for canning and dehydration variety (Table I). The actual wages, the fruit cost and enable the fruits to fall through requires the pulp to be remaining pulp consists of 80% labour cost are similar the correspondingly sized obtained from the mango of water; which is removed PROCTOR dehydrators can tube. Size differences and cheeks without losing the during the drying process. produce more than ten tonnes FOOD PROCESSING previously sorted fruit and inserts it onto the nailed chain. Two stainless steel sheets are used to orient the fruit. Each ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦♦ t sheet is spring loaded at on ^ one end to exert pressure and eject the fruit. Ifthe same force is exerted on both ends, r2=0,1665 r^=0,1386 ~i 1 1 1 the mango is centred to the S 9 10 11 7 8 9 middle of the cutting blades. Fruit length (cm) Fmil width (cm) (a) (b) Fruit cutting Two stainless steel circular blades are moved by a 0.75 kW electric motor turning at Fig. 3. Stone size depending on fruit (a) length; and (b) width 1750 rpm. With the 0.75 kW electric motor drive, the blades V ICP are brought to a complete halt ifthey encounter a seed. The blades and the travellingchain it. ' V rotate in opposite directions pulling the mango towards the cutting edge, reducing mango rotation. The high force required for cutting the peel cause this rotation, which is avoided with the chain-nails. When the fruit is overripe it will turn before being cut. The distance between both disk blades is adjusted according to the fruit size. Fig. 4. Chain-nail positioning s/stem with pressing sheets and mango pictorial Cheek distribution The cheeks cut by the of dry fruit per day, so more seed size establishes the fixed destoner have to be delivered workers would be required. blades spacing. In a previous Fruit orientation to the peeling band, which study the mango width was Mango is not a completely transports them to the peeling Fully automated studied using'Kent' mangoes; spherical product and it has to machine. Once the cheek is destoning process the stone size does not be oriented properly so that cut (Fig. 5) it falls by gravity A machine that can destone increase dramaticallywith size the stone travels parallel towards the band maintaining mangoes automatically is (Fig. 3). Ifthe space between towards the cutting blades alwaysthe peel towards the required. This needs to be the blades is small and a big (Fig.4). Ifthe fruit is not stainless steel sheet Different capable of: mango is introduced the stone oriented properly, the seed will angles were tested to avoid fruit sizing; will be cut. Ifthe spacing is big be cut At the moment that cheek bouncing and it was • fruit orientation: and the mango small, the pulp the fruit touches the blades, it found that 30 degrees was the • fruit cutting; cheeks obtained will be small tends to roll so it was proper inclination. The mango • cheek positioning. remaining most of the pulp necessary to look for a fruit cheek is properly oriented in around the seed. So the holding mechanism. A chain 98% of the cases at the peeling Fruit sizing maximum pulp is obtained with stainless steel nails was band. Fruit sizing is required to avoid with an efficient fruit sizing used to fix the mango as it When a stone is cut the changing the distance between system. With three sizes,the travels towards the cutting mango has to be removed blades. Otherwise the pulp probability of cutting stone is edge at a speed of 2 rpm. The automatically The motor cheeks will not be cut reduced to 7% and the nails prevent the product current is sensed and when it properly Several techniques quantity of pulp obtained on rolling and the quantity of reaches a given threshold a can be used such as laser sizing the cheeks increased. With mango that could be cut is solenoid is activated separating (Hahn, 1998) or mechanical four sizes the system becomes dependent on the speed at the cheek. In an experiment sorting. The size-sorted more efficient, and less than which the worker inserts the carried out with 1000 product is introduced to the 5% of the fruit are cut by the fruit. mangoes it was noted that mango destoner; where the seed. The worker takes the after manual sizing, 93% of the Commercia Academic Members Members Bomford Turner Ltd Cranfield University Salford Priors, Evesham Silsoe Worcestershire WRI I 5SW Bedford MK45 4DT Douglas Bomford Trust 16 The Oaks Harper Adams University Silsoe College Bedford Newport MK45 4EL Shropshire TFI0 8NB Farm Energy Centre NAC Lackham College Stoneleigh Lacock Kenilworth Chippenham WaPA'ickshire Wiltshire CV8 2LS SNI5 2NY John Deere Ltd Sparsholt College Harby Road Sparsholt Langar Winchester Nottinghamshire Hampshire NGI3 9HT S02 2NF White Horse Contractors Ltd Lodge Hill Abingdon Oxfordshire OX14 2JD Built to last: Honeywell intro duces new corrosion-resist ant pressure reducing valve Honeywell's corrosion-resistant D15P pressure reducing valve Fig.5. (a) Mango cheeks being cut from the stone passing now features an epoxy powder coating that protects valve compo between the two discs; and (b) position of one cheek after the nents. so ensuring long-term, reliable operation in underground cutting operation is complete chambers. The epoxy powder coating is applied insideand outside the valve body to provide a high degree of protection against cor fruits were properly cut, wrth fruitand to eliminateoverripe, rosion. The powder coating is physiologically safe and non-toxic. Other new features include an increased outlet pressure range of less than 10%of the pulp fermented fruit. The affected 1.5to 8.0 bar and a position indicator on the spring bonnet to remaining on the stone. With fruit must be removed to provide easier setting. four parallel pair of blades. 20 prevent the final juice product Built to a reliable and well-proven design,the Honeywell DISP tonnes of mango could be cut beingtainted, and it is possible is designed for use in potable water supply systems and is used in in one working day of 8 hours. to sense overripe fruit by its municipal, industrial and commercial water networks. It isWRc Higher speeds could be colour approved for use with potable water and all materials in contact achieved but it could be with the water are KTW approved. It also carries full WRAS harmful for the workers. Reference approval. Work is now being done Hahn F (1998). Automatic Honeywell D ISP pressure reducing valves minimise water con to completely automate the mango cutter A5AE Paper sumption and repair costs by protecting water installationsagainst machine, both to avoid No. 9831 19 damage from excessive pressure in the water supply By reducing workers havingto insert the the operating pressure and maintaining it at a constant level, the Honeywell DI5P also minimises flow noise in the installation. They can be used in multi-dwelling buildings as well as industrial and commercial premises. The set output pressure is held constant across a wide inlet pressure fluctuation. Honeywell supplies the DISP in sizes from SO mm to 200 mm (DN SO to DN 200) and with a maximum inlet pressure rating of 16.0 ban Contact: Honeywell Control Systems Ltd, Honeywell House. Arlington Business Park, Bracknell, Berkshire RGI2 lEB. Tel: 01344 6S6000, Fax: 01344 656240. email: [email protected] Web: www.honeywell.com/uk >A.t.-l- wx^. INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY AND IMPROVING LIVELIHOODS IN SEMI-ARID AREAS Jim Ellis-Jones, Vurayai Zvarevashe, Steve Twomlow and Kelly Stevenson Research-development linkages, a case study from southeast Zimbabwe Background • a geographical catchment, amount of siltation going into A small dam and community being the physical area the dam through appropriate resources management project from which run-off water is production and conservation in Masvingo.southeast collected in the dam; and methods in the micro and Zimbabwe, assists local • a social catchment, being geographical catchments to communities to improve their the area from which the control erosion. livelihoods through the different user groups is The project aims to rehabilitation and protection of drawn and who utilise the improve household livelihood small dams, development of resources ofthe dam within security through increased small-scale irrigation and the geographical area of the production incomes. As such, conservation of the physical catchment and can it has a number of catchment ofthe dams. Each comprise a number of interdependent components; dam has three types of different villages each with • assisting community catchment: its own traditional organisation and • a micro-catchment, being leadership. management; the area immediately CARE IS concerned with all • promoting community surrounding each dam, three catchments but in the awareness of which is presently being first instance is seeking to environmental issues; fenced as a protective facilitate the establishment of • rehabilitation and measures to reduce the protection of damworks and 24 WNDWARDS SPRING 2001 catchmetit areas (typically researchers to address household assets and 200-5000 ha); community needs in a understanding how people • development of household participatory and iterative derive their livelihoods is irrigation systems (typically way; and important in ensuring that the I-3 ha in e>d:ent); • empower local people to poorest also benefit. The • improving dryland farming take the initiative, set the integration of these research practices and farmer-led phorrties, participate in the activities within a development research trials: management, evaluation and project is providing the basis use the research results. for improving linkages between Marketing garden A key concern of the the community extension produce project is to reduce the levels personnel, and researchers. It Particular attention is being of siltation in the dams to has led to greater appreciation given to the benefits that can ensure the sustainability of of the problems faced by accrue to the poorest irrigation and other dam farmers and the role that households in the community benefits. This means improving research should play in To ensure sustainability after conservation in the catchment improving livelihoods of the care's facilitating roie has areas. The project is therefore poorest households within a been completed ft is essential promoting several initiatives. rural community that the ability of the local • The use of improved soil community and institutions to and water conservation Results and discussion maintain the dam and (SWC) through Understanding how peoples irrigation maintenance is participatory catchment secure their livelihoods strengthened. Key to this are planning, development and A detailed socio-economic the improvement of dryland dissemination of appropriate survey (Ellis-Jones, 1999) farming and conservation of technologies in each identified a low level of assets, common property resources catchment area. low incomes (less than US$ I in the catchment to reduce • The adoption of a range of per day), low productivity and siltation and increase dam life, tillage and water the importance of watered Without these the income conservation measures gardens as a an income source, generating effect of irrigation is through farmers' particularly for the poorest. likely to be short-lived and experimentation with Participatory weaHih ranking benefits to the poorest illusive. innovative between and in exercises (CARE, 1999) This paper addresses the role field SWC methods. These identified four categories of of natural resources in include the testing of various household based on livestock peoples' livelihoods and work crop establishment and implement ownership, use undertaken to achieve techniques (Riches et al., of crop inputs, yields achieved, sustainable catchment 1998),such as rip-planting as well as type of homestead, management and seed priming and use of education level of head of water harvesting techniques household and sources of Purpose of research for fruit orchards. In income. This categorisation and approaches taken addition, improving the was used to classify The work undertaken is maintenance and the use of beneficiaries using livestock Jim Ellis-Jones (top) is the Farming interdisciplinarytechnically draught animal equipment and implement ownership as Systems Economist in the relativelystraightforward, but (Kozaet a!., 1999),and the the main indicators of the four International Development Group institutionally and socially introduction of innovative household resource groups based ai Silsoe Research Institute, complex in that a number a low cost implements are (Table I), Wrest Park, Silsoe, Beds I1M5 4RU, number of organisations ongoing aims. Poorer households are UK. Tel: (0)1525 860000, e-mail; internal and external to the • The introduction of drought more likely to be female jini.el!is-jones@ bbsrc.ac.uk community are involved. The tolerant crops by linking headed, have a younger head Vurayai Zvarevashe and Kelly approach has been designed farmers with the with a smaller household, Stevenson are based at CARE- to; International Maize and fewer people living away from Zimbabwe, P.O.Box KG 937, • reinforce the Wheat Centre (CIMMYT) in home, receive lower cash Highlands, Harare, Zimbabwe. Tel; 00 development objectives Mexico and commercial incomes, own fewer livestock, 263 4 727986,e-mail: of the project through companies for testing own fewer implements, [email protected] promoting long-term drought resistant crop cultivate smaller arable areas, Steve Twomlow (bottom) is the Soil infrastructure varieties. This in turn has led achieve lower yields, spend less Fertility lianagement Specialist at the maintenance and ongoing to these organisations being on crop inputs and have less Matopos Research Station o( the testing of technology more aware ofthe criteria access to watered gardens. International Centre for Research in options by the local farmers take into account Overall the main sources of the Semi-arid Tropiu (ICRISAT). community; when selecting new varieties. income are local wages, • provide opportunity for Knowing more about dryland crops, remittances. RURAL DEVELOPMENT Table I. Summary statistics showing the mean for each Resource Group (RG) RGl RG2 RG3 RG4 Well Average Poorly Verypoorly resourced resourced resourced resourced (n=I66) (n^28l) (n=192) (n=lll) Households, % of total 22 38 25 15 Male Head ofHousehold (HoH), % oftotal 85 81 79 74 Predominant age group ofHoH, y Over 55 Over 55 46-55 46-55 Average household size, no. ofpeople 11.8 9.7 9.1 6.3 No. oflivestock owned Cattle 9.9 3.2 0.3 0 Donkeys 2.0 1.1 0 0 Goats 7.2 4.6 4.1 0 Implements owned Full range Plough Plough None Access to watered gardens, % oftotal 92 92 90 81 Arable area cropped, ha 2.9 2.4 2.1 1.7 Total maize harvested, kg 1250 520 390 255 Average cash expenditure on crop inputs, US$ 42 26 17 12 Average income from crop sales, US$ 51 21 11 3 /?, sample number Table 2. Average annual incomes for male and female headed households in each resource group (RG) 1998 (US $/year) Average annual income in each resource category' (RG), US$/y Income RGl Well RG2 Average RG3 Poorly RG4 Verypoorly ALLgroups source resourced resourced resourced resourced Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female 19% 3% 30% 7% 20% 5% 11% 4% 81% 19% Dryland 48 42 23 11 9 7 4 1 23 13 Irrigated gardens 10 6 7 7 7 8 5 3 7 7 Livestock 54 5 12 8 2 1 0 0 18 4 Wages 42 4 53 9 44 2 36 2 46 6 Remittances 22 8 19 15 18 8 13 5 19 10 Pensions 23 13 4 8 1 7 0 0 7 7 Total 201 78 118 57 82 34 59 12 120 46 livestock, pensions, and The order of importance does not only incomes, but also before the initial storage irrigated gardens, but there are vary between groups and even nutrition and health, is large. capacity is reduced to a major differences between though income derived from specified percentage of the households. (Table 2). agriculture is important, local Sedimentation studies original capacity (Lawrence. In all resource groups wages and remittances are Sedimentation in dams is a 1999). Such predictions are (RGs),women headed proportionately higher in natural and inevitable process dependent on characterization households earned much poorer households. Lossof and advice on the sizing of ofthe catchment and the lower incomes. Only in the income from remittances or dams to avoid excessive impact of conservation. Relief, well-resourced group (RGI) wages is likely to have higher sedimentation has been soil type and drainage, was dryland farming and impact on the poorer available since the late 1980s vegetation type and condition, livestock the main source of categories. Within an average (Kabell, 1984). It is controlled surface water storage, income. Local wages and household of eight requiring by three factors: population density and existing remittances were important approximately one tonne of • the sediment load delivered and past land use can influence for men and women in the maize per year to be self from the catchment: erosion catchment risk. Long averaged resourced group sufficient, only RGIs (22%) do • the proportion of annual term and seasonal differences (RG2),poorly resourced group not need to purchase run-off that is stored; and in the amount, timing, intensity (RG3) and the very poorly additional maize. Other RGs • the proportion of incoming and duration of rainfall will resourced group (RG4);with (78%) need additional maize sediment that is trapped. effect soil loss and dryland crops being important through donation, working for Estimates based on these sedimentation. There can be for men and irrigated crops for others, barter or purchase. parameters can be used to time lags of 10-20 years women, in these three groups. The potential for increasing indicate the time in years between the introduction of 26 UNDWARDS SPRING 200! Table 3. Ranking of problems in the catchment using pairwise ranking. average of have been installed 15 in each of the 21 catchments surveyed (Table 4). Problem D E_ H Score Priorh Participatory surveys have A Gullies AA A 1 1 shown that while most (80%) B Stream bank cultivation, B BEB B 4 3= have worked well, there have C Arable lands too close to waterways CC C 4 3= D Cropping without contours, D D 3 5= been problems with washing E Tree cutting, E 3 5= away (particularly in stone F Overgrazing close to the dam F 6 2 filled gullies and dead level G Erosion caused by cattle tracks . H 0 8 contours), under or side H Brickmakinc 1 7 cutting (masonry weirs) and siltation. Diversion banks were considered problem free and Table 4. Structures constructed and performance (21 catchments) where infiltration pits have been constructed, a number Number in each performarherformance cate^Ox have been desilted. Total Structure Worked Washed Under• Side cut Fully Desihed There are concerns about number silted the ability, willingness or Masonry weirs 4 4 feasibility of the community to Stone check dams 9 9 maintain structures, which are Brush wood check dams 0 0 either washed away or require Gullies filled with stones 0 26 desilting. Experimentation Gullies filled with bush 0 0 with vegetative barriers Diversion banks 0 0 (vetiver and napier), proven in Dead Level contours 0 0 higher rainfall environments Fanyajuus 0 1 are highly rated by the Infiltration pits 3 6 communities (being easy to Total 16 46 maintain with potential to 5% 15% provide grazing), are being increased. effective conservation and catchment planning has been participants through the significant reduction in initiated with local catchment noting both Run-off orchards sediment yields, especiallyon communities to pioneer a way positive and negative The establishment of fruit larger catchments. Research is forward in Zimbabwe, as aspects, obtaining the views trees in areas close to people's ongoing to see ifthese regular desilting of dams is of men and women, younger homesteads using rainwater- characteristics can be used to uneconomic. and older people; harvesting techniques was describe historical sediment • identifying and prioritising initiated through inter-farmer patterns (Zirebwa &Twomlow, Participatory problems and suggesting visits to view the success of 1999). Sediment traps can catchment planning solutions; and rainwater harvesting (run-off) provide an initial reduction in and soil conservation • detailing an action plan and orchards established by siftation, but can become Participatory planning is being agreeing whom is going to farmers in other areas.This ineffective after 1-2years. undertaken with local be responsible/or following formed an important part of Most households indicate a community members and up. the initial agronomy and need for conservation in institutions (dam,irrigation and An example of a ranking conservation programme in arable,grazing and conservation/agronomy exercise (Table 3),following a order to establish immediate woodland/hill areas, with committees established in each transect walk, shows greatest returns to conservation grazing areas considered the catchment, traditional leaders concern about gullies, over activities. It pnovided biggest problem. Hovv'even as well as representatives from grazing close to the dam and opportunity for farmers to recent research in Zimbabwe local government). Typically it streambank cultivation. control run-off and observe points to the extreme difficulty involves: For each problem, the sedimentation facilitating the of implementing management ♦ a series of workgroups cause is then identified, identification of problems systems for common property mapping details and changes possible solutions discussed within catchments. Training resources (for example taking place in the and an action plan agreed was provided by farmers in the Campbell et al., 2000, Frost & catchment, establishingthe upon. Conservation or layout of the orchards for Madondo, 1999). This is main natural resources agronomy committees maximising water harvesting especially so for v/oodlands activities in the catchment, appointed by the community usingA frames, digging planting but less so for water (Lovell, identifying the institutions are the custodians of the plan pits and using compost 2000). In other countries a who effect or can provide and monitor the activities material. Emphasis was given slightly more optimistic voice is assistance in use ofthe taking place. to providing the skills so that raised (Farrington et al.„ 1999). catchment; Different structures have visiting farmers would A process of participatory ♦ a transect walk by been promoted and an themselves become trainers of RURAL DEVELOPMENT Table 5. Farmer ranking oftreatments against their criteria Participatory crop variety trials An example isthe evaluation Score of a number ofcommercially Criteria Harrow, hoe Rip and Hoe and and plant plant plant available maize varieties (R20I,CG4I4I,CG 3631,P Ease ofoperation after an average 2 3 2 rainy season 3435 and CG 4585). Farmers Ability to conserve moisture 2 3 1 developed their own Suitability for different soil types 2/2 3/1 1/3 evaluation criteria and then (clay/sand) carried out a matrix ranking Weed growth after planting -3 -1 2 exercise (Table 6). Draught power requirements -1 -3 2 The maize variety P3435 Timeliness ofoperations 1 3 2 was considered marginally Labour required -1 -3 2 better than CG4141, with the Best germination 2 3 1 others havingworse qualities. Best yield 3 2 1 Farmers regarded 'R201 as Total 9 10 4 having AIDS'. (+14-5) (+17-7) (+10-6) Rank 2 1 3 Conclusions (l=low, 2=medium, 3=high, with negative figures indicating disadvantages) The close interrelationship between research and development provides other farmers when they Improving crop farmers on a wider scale using opportunity for local returned honne. establishment low cost ripper attachments households and communities Initially, some 7000 trees An example of an evaluation that can be fitted to the to take the lead in prioritising were supplied to farmers undertaken by farmers plough beam their requirements, albeit at a subsidised cost, with compares harrowing then Other farmers have participating in the design, each farmer being supplied plantingby hoe, direct-planting experimented with priming implementation, evaluation and with 5 trees. A considerable by hoe, and rip planting all maize seed through overnight use of results. Additional number of other households after winter ploughing. soaking and plantingthe next benefits have included sourced and purchased trees Farmers criteria were day Resultsfor participatory institutional strengthening, independently identified through trials indicate earlier enhanced environmental Notwithstanding the demand brainstorming and each germination, better crop awareness, gaining in for seedlingsfar exceeded the treatment ranked according to stands and improved crop confidence, abilityto resolve supplyand many holes dug for these criteria (Table 5) grov^h with less competition conflicts and above all the trees remain unplanted. Overall the Rip-plant from weeds. Problems with development of farmers own Experience has shown that all technique was regarded as handling the seed and rotting if abilities to experiment and not resource categories have beingthe best and further lefttoo long between soaking just accept research messages benefited in both receiving trials are being carried out by and plantingwere identified. which may or may not be trees, plantingand maintaining them. Over 70% of farmers Table 6. Ranking offarmer criteria on maize varieties report that alltheir trees were alive, one year after planting. Others lost up to 75% of their Score trees due to lack of fencing Criteria Maize variety and livestock damage. R20I CG4I41 CG 3631 P3435 CG 4585 The promotion of run-off Drought resistance 2 2 2 3 1 orchards is continuing in all Cobs covered by leaves 2 1 2 3 2 dam areas with successful Synchronisation 1 2 3 3 2 farmers being further Cob size 1 2 2 3 1 encouraged to act as trainers. Lines ofseed 2 3 2 3 2 Local individual and small Taste 3 3 1 1 2 community nurseries are being Time to germination 3 3 2 1 2 promoted through training and Seed size 3 3 2 3 2 credit with a small charge Weevil resistance 1 2 2 3 2 being charged for tree Time to maturity 3 3 2 1 2 seedlings. Non-governmental Overall health 1 2 2 3 1 Organisations (NGOs) are not Resistance to disease 1 33 3 3 3 competing with small individual Yield 1 3 2 3 2 or community nurseries in Total 24 32 26 33 24 providing trees for run-off Rank 4= 2 3 1 4= orchards. l=low, 2=medium, 3=high 28 LANDWARDS SPRING 2001 applicable to local situations. Kosa, O'Neill and Ellis- It has helped research and Jones (1999). Enhancingthe extension staffto focus their use of draught animals by work on farmers' priorities smallholder farmers in The Society of and use farmers' evaluation Zimbabwe. Paper criteria in the evaluation submitted to AGENG Operations Engineers process.- 2000. Lawrence P (1999). CARE aoDoints its first oatron Acknowledgemcnts small dams. A simple We would like to interim procedure for acknowledge the support estimating dam life. HR from the Department for Wallingford. July 1999. At its Foundation Luncheon today in London, International Development, for Lovell C J (2000). the Societyof Operations Engineers, Britain's the work being undertaken. Productive water points in newest professional engineering institution, We also thank Angela dryland areas. Guidelines Crampton for her helpful on integrated planning for announced Lord Haskel a Labour life peer; as advice on the draft paper rural water supply its first patron. Intermediate Technology References Publications. Campbell B,de JongW, Riches C, Ellis-Jones J, Luckert M, Mandondo A, Twomlow S, Mazhangara Acknowledging hisappointment,Lord Haskel stated,'! Matose F, Nemarundwe E, Dhliwayo H, Mabasa S, welcome the comingtogether of road transport engineers N,SitholeB(l999). Chatizwal (1998). and plantengineersto createThe Society of Operations Challengesto proponents Participatory Development Engineers. Thisdemonstrates a forwardthinking approach to of CPR systems - of tillage/weed the development of engineering in Britain. As such,Iam Despairingvoices from the management practicesfor pleasedto have an opportunity to contribute to this aimto social forests of maize farmers in semi-arid which we are all commrtted'. Zimbabwe. Institute of Zimbabwe:Who benefits? Lord Haskel is no stranger to the world of engineering, Environmental Studies, Paper presented at the having had a longand successful career in business. He has University of Zimbabwe. 15th International been a Life Peer for seven years and has held front bench CARE (1999). Household Symposium for the posts in opposition and ingovernment and iscurrentlya livelihoods assessment. Association for Farming member ofthe House of Lords Select Committee on Science Report for CARE- Systems Research- andTechnology With a strong and continuing practical International.In press Extension, 29 Novemeber- Interest (Dod's Parliamentary Companion lists hisspecial Ellis-Jones J (1999). CARE 4 December 1998, interests as'trade and industry, science and technology'),he is small dams' baseline survey Pretoria, South Africa. well placedto advise and assistthe Society as it embarks on IDG/99/2. Zirebwa J, andTwomlow S its declared task of promotingthe significance of operations Farrlngton J,Turton C, (1998). Historical profiles engineering to business and society as a whole. and James AJ (1999). of selected small dams in David Cox,as president of the Societyof Operations Participatory watershed communal areas of Engineers, warmlywelcomed Lord Haskel's appointment development. Challenges Masvingo Province. commenting,'OurSociety has a significant role to play for for the 21st Century IDG/99/1 I. Report for engineers and technicians in all areas of operations Oxford University Press CARE-Zimbabwe. engineering managementand technology, as wellas the ISBNO 19 565135 9. development of UKengineering in general. With his depth Frost PG H, and and breadth of experience. Lord Haskel's support and MadondoA(l999). interest will be invaluable in helping the Societyestablish itself Improvingrural livelihoods as a key organisation'. in semi-arid regions through management of micro-catchments. lES Working paper 12. Institute of Environmental Studies,University of Zimbabwe. KabellT (1984). Sediment storage requirements for reservoirs. lAHS publication No. 24. 29 PRODUCTS HYDRAULICS Lindes ^R-02 pumps offer greater swept volumes, lower cost and help overcome noise The critical feature of the new HPR-02 Variable Pump Series from Linde Hydraulics is the unique 21 degree swash angle, which enables much greater swept volumes to be achieved than on normal 18 degree swash angle pumps, all without sacrificing quality or service life. "he radical design of the HPR- for systems where lower noise levels bar, are suitable for a maximum 500 02 embraces a whole new are particularly important. Noise in ban The Linde LINTRONIC OCA concept that sees prices static industrial systems, marine (Open Current Amplifier) digital below those of earlier series by applications and mobile vehicles can controller is specifically designed for between 5% and 20%,dependent on be caused by many factors, not all of use with Linde's HPR-02 series of final specification. This has been which are hydraulic. Where power regulated,open circuit pumps achieved by considerable investment airborne noise is partly produced by which, in addition to either electric in dedicated machine tools and a hydraulic installation, it will have a motor or diesel engine power improved manufacturing techniques pump at its origin. limiting, incorporates a secondary which also givehighervolumetric and Airborne noise can also be feature that provides for direct mechanical efficiencies. radiated by structures and can be control of pump delivery, down to Designed for open loop excited by a prime mover such as an zero flow, at pressure. applications,the new pumps result hydraulic pump,an electric motor or Tony Clements, Sales & from an innovative rethink ofthe perhaps a diesel engine to such an Marketing Manger of Linde basic in-lineaxial piston, swash plate extent that it is audibly intrusive. Hydraulics pointed out: The rotating rotating group. Traditionaldesign When this happens there is an groups used in the HPR-02 series swash plate pumps incorporate a increasing number of mandatory have been operational for six years ball on the piston end which locates Health & Safetyconsiderations to be in other series, so the engineering into a socket on the slipper pad. By taken into account. and technology are well proven. The placingthe ball end on the slipper To address these issues, Linde design objectives were all realised pad instead in can now go inside the development engineers set out to which has resulted in an extremely piston which reduces overall unit analyse and reduce the exciting compact unit with a high power length. This new arrangement frequencies and their amplitude density improved efficiency, very low enables the critical increase from 18 generated by hydraulic pumps. noise characteristics and at the same degrees to 21 degrees for the swash Detailed analysis of the pressure time, lower prices'. angle,a change which is entirely rippleswithinthe -02 series HPR responsible for the twin benefits of pump range enabled Linde increased swept volumes and higher engineers to significantly reduce the MORE INFORMATION power density amplitude of the pressure ripples Further underliningthe cost over a wide range of input speeds Contact: Jane savingapproach was the decision to and operating system pressures. Dowdeswell, Linde deploy common rotating groups in Typically, sound level reductions of 2 Hydraulics Ltd, 7 both the pumps and motors plus to 4 dB(A) have been achieved by Nuffieid Way, Abingdon, the use ofcommon parts in units of reducing pressure pulsationsfrom Oxfordshire. 0X14 IRJ. differing capacity. 38.7 bar to 11.3 bar Tel: 01235 522828 The new wHisPeRing-02 The new units are available in E-mail: enquiries®iinde- derivatives ofthe standard HPR-02 55,75, 105, l35,and2IOcmVrev hydraulics.co.uk series have been specially developed displacement and, while rated at 420 30 LANDWARDS SPRING 2001 Mew variable chamber balers offer Drogressive density With the emphasis not too soft, or too hard,' says The firm is the first to eliminate ensures that 100% of the crop on continually Mr Baker. 'And with a tougher the need for feed rollers to is cut as it enters the baler and inriproving bale outer shell, straw bales will be apply wrap to the bale. 'When the hydraulically adjustable quality and machine more tolerant to poor weather the bale tying process is knives can be fully in work, fully performance,Vicon has conditions, while silage bales activated, a steel plate presses retracted or set in an introduced two new variable will maintaintheir shape for net wrap against the belts to intermediate position. chamber round balers for use improved stacking and easier feed wrap on to the bale,' says In-cab controls extend to in grass and straw. rehandling.' Mr Baker 'It is a simple process Vicon"s Autoform system which Designated the RV1601 and The process of starting a that now removes the allows the operator to make RV1901, the new balers bale has been refined on the possibility of net wrap adjustments to the baler from replace the previous RV157 new RVmodels by switching to becoming tangled in rollers the comfort and safety of the and RV 187 models. Bale a single set of belts running that were previously used to cab. UsingAutoform, the diameters extend from 0.6 m throughout the baler This has apply net wrap.' operator can select net or up to 1.6 m and 1.9 m allowed the installation oftwo Both models are equipped twine tyingand adjust the respectivelyfor the RV 1601 driven bale rollers above and with a 2.1 m pickup, to which quantity of net or twine and RV 1901,representing an behind the crop intake as part can be added an integral feed applied. The system also increase in the maximum bale of a new design of prechamben rotor or Opticut crop indicatesthe position of the size of 10 cm compared with in which the bale can start chopping system. Opticut knives when fitted and previous RVmodels. And, like rolling immediately 'A 2.1 m wide pickup means displaysthe required location their predecessors, the new 'These subtle design theRVI60l andRVI90l ofthe tractor in relation to the balers can be specified with changes to the bale chamber models can easily handle heavy width ofthe swath to ensure Vicon's Opticut crop chopping mean immediate bale starting swaths produced by high even falling of the bale system and a combination of in any crop, in any condition,' capacity combines and mower chamber net and twine tying or net adds Mr Baker 'You can drive conditioners' says Mr Baker Autoform"s additional wrap only straight into any swath at 'With the new pre-chamber sophistication allows finetuning Keyto the success of the working speeds, which means design,there is no restriction in of the progressive density new RV models is the baler output is never getting crop into the baler and system to suit the gentler development of a progressive compromised.' this contributes to high in-field process of hay making. It density bale formation system Both RV models now use performance" includes the ability to set the for improved bale structure, five wide-section belts instead But for heavy wet silage bale diameter being produced and a new pre-chamber design of six belts used on the crops or lumpy matted swaths, and also,when equipped with that provides easy bale starting, previous machines. Fewer operators can take advantage the optional soft core kit, regardless of the crop belts have the effect of ofVicon"s integral rotor allows the operator to conditions. reducing crop losses and technology by opting for a high determine the diameter and 'Progressive density is offering a more positive bale capacity feed rotor taken from density of the bale's core and applied through the RV baler's rotation. the firm"s latest fixed chamber outer layers. belt tensioning arm,'explains 'The wider belts now cover baler range. The rotor carries Prices start at £ 19,235 for Vicon's technical managerTim 90% of the bale, compared to large diameter augers which, the RV 1601 and £20,720 for Baker.'Asthe bale grows within 81% coverage with the older combined with tines arranged the larger RV 1901. the chamber; the belt balers. This means more belt in a helix pattern, improves the tensioning arm is subjected to area now grips each bale way dense, wet grass or heavy MORE INFORMATION steadily increasing resistance providing even more positive tangled straw is cleared from from a hydraulic cylinder and a bale rotation,"says Mr Baker the pickup. Eric Richards, Vicon Ltd, spring tensioner. So as the bale 'Also,there's less opportunity A further option for the Adderley Road, Market diameter grows, so too does for crop loss between each latest RV balers is Opticut - Drayton, Shropshire, TF9 the bale's density.' belt.' Vicon"s crop chopping system 3$G. Tel: 01630 653501. 'The result is a very firm Vicon has revolutionised the that uses 14 stationary knives Fax: 01630 650799. e-maih bale with a moderate core - application of net wrap with its working against a chopping [email protected] new variable chamber balers. rotor When selected, Opticut 31 PRODUCTS Spalding hot spot grain Airspears Hot grain deteriorates in high risk of it heating up toughest grain hot spot using a a digital temperature gauge and quality very quickly. Cool grain without warning. unique specially designed probe to identify hotspots in will keep safelyfor longer,with Spaldings grain spears are handle. Two Airspears are the grain store allowing action less chance of pest infestation, 100 mm in diameter and 2.1 m available, one designed for to be taken. vital with today's low grain overallwith a 0.9 m perforated cereals and one for oilseed Spaldings airsprears can be prices. Unventilated grain in section. They feature sharp rape. One spear will cool used in conjunction with the store may appear to be steel points with 21/flights that approximately 30 tonnes of existing underfloor drying doing well,but there is a very can easily be screwed into the grain with the recommended systems allowing hot spots to spacing between each spear of be dealt with in the event of a 3 m. blocked duct or vent. A choice of fans are available with airflow from 0.2 mVs (recommended for rape)to 0.1 m^s Spaldings (UK) Limited, (recommended for cereals) Sadler Road, Lincoln LN6 that suck hot air out of the 3XJ. Tel: 01522 500600. grain. When one area of the Fax: 01522 689011. email: grain is cool, the spear can marl On the right track withVulcan stocl New Vulcan high tensile animals and people straying efficientlyto increase trackside without stretching and gives a stockfence from leading fencing onto dangerous track areas. It safety' much higher resistance to manufacturerTinsley Wire has is a cost-effective alternative to 60,000 metres ofVulcan impact than traditional fences. been chosen as stockproof line wire and concrete posts HT8/80/I5 stockfence will be It is a premium quality product, trackside fencing in Devon and which we had used previously. erected over the next yean with manufactured in Sheffield and is Cornwall. The new fence also offers four lines ofVulcan barbed wire designed to offer high RayGreen, fencing contracts greater stockproofing above it for additional height performance and low manager for GW Railtracksaid: properties for the farmer and and security,creating an 1.2m maintenance. Vulcan proved to be highly ourselves and a fence line that high barrier Vulcan barbed wire is one of effective as a barrier to prevent can be erected faster and more Marketing manager Paul the strongest barbed wires Frost said:'This is one ofthe available. It will not break or first major applications of unravel when strained and will Vulcan, which was launched hold its tension throughout the recently at the Royal Smithfleld lifetime ofthe fence without Show. Contractors and farmers sagging. alike are recognising its unique The complete Vulcan range properties which make it the will include Vulcan HighTensile most user-friendly and easy to Stockfence, HighTensile Green erect stockfence on the market.' Rylock Vulcan and Vulcan High Vulcan stockfence is Tensile Barbed Wire in 200 m manufactured from Vanadium- rolls and 25 kg exact weight Vulcan high tensile stockfence from TinsleyWire being erected enhanced high tensile wire. This coils. for GreatWestern Railways allows the fence to be strained 32 UNDWAROS SPRING 2001 Stoll Robust F loaders from Lynx Lynx Engineering has introduced to the carriage as they are the new premium quality Stoil fitted. As an alternative, Robust F range of tractor loaders. Hydro-Lock can be fitted to Manufactured in Germany, the enable attachments to be loaders are produced in nine main released without the operator havingto leave the cab. sizes and are suitable for tractors A loader suspension from 30 to 128 kW. Key features system, Comfort-Drive can include high strength slim profile also be specified. This uses a loader arms and class leading gas accumulator to cushion load cycle. shock loads from the loader to the tractor Comfort-Drive is The loaders are offered in recommended for use on two basic forms, HD and loaders fitted to tractors that HDPM. Both types have will be used over rough ground double acting lift rams,the or at high transport speeds, HDPM featuring mechanical Stoll has recently modified parallel lift. Automatic its loader manufacturing attachment coupling is also system and reduced standard. production costs. This has 1.50 m wide SilageShear Grab £236, £298 and £355 to all To speed fitting and combined with the favourable suitable for a mid-range loader loader models, respectively removal, the loaders are exchange rate of the pound to is £2,030 and an eight tine The new LynxStoll Robust F supplied with flatface colour make premium quality Stoll manure fork is £380, tractor loader has a heavy duty coded hydraulic hose loaders more affordable. This Suppliedcomplete with slim profile loader arm connectors. The Stol! Hydro- also applies to the brackets and a single lever Fixsingle point docking system comprehensive range of Stoil joystickcontrol, an entry level is also available, and uses an loader attachments. HD8 loader for a tractor of up For further details contact: over-centre clamp to rapidly Produced to the same to 45 kW is priced from Nick Ewbank, Lynx connect and release the hoses exacting standards as the £ 1295. The Hydro-Fix single Engineering, Wharf Works, even when they are under loaders, the attachments are doclong point hydraulics, Long Buckby, Northampton, pressure. supplied ready to fit, and are Hydro-Lock attachment NN6 7PP. As standard, the Stoll Auto- priced in linewith units from system and Comfort-Drive Tel: 01327 843215. Lock system locks attachments third parties. As an example, a suspension system options add Fax: 01327 844341. Smithfield presentation recognises sale of 1000th UK Lexion The sale of the 1000th Claas and have been bought to of the area in rotation with increase in capacity over the Lexion combine in the UK has increase combine capacity on the winter barley oats, peas, spring Lexion 460 was significant. It is at been recognised in a special 2,225 ha estate, having taken on beans and setaside. least one and a half times that of presentation made at the Royal the management of a The two Lexion 480s have the Lexion 460, plus the straw Smithfield Show by Helmut neighbouring 610 ha under a five been specified with 7.5mVario chopper and spreader system is Claas, Chairman of the Claas year Farm BusinessTenancy cutterbars and the Laser Pilot ideal for use within the minimal Group Supervisory Board, to (FBT), automatic steering system. cultivations policythat we have Richard Wingfield who bought Total cropping across the To handle the increase in adopted over the conventional the combine, a Lexion 480. combined area is 2.100 ha. Of area, we did look at the option of The combine is one oftwo this, some 200 ha has either full buying a third Lexion 460, but we Lexion 480s bought by Richard organic status, or is in conversion, have every confidence that the Wingfield for his Barrington Park growing winter wheat, winter two Lexion 480s will be capable TrevorTyrrell, Claas UK Ltd, Estate near Burford, Oxfordshire, barley oats, pulses, sugar beet to handle the acreage,' says Saxham Business Park, which is managed by Colburn and potatoes. Ofthe arable manager Adrian Dolby Saxham, Bury St Edmunds, Phillips. The two combines conventionally farmed area, 'After a demonstration ofthe Suffolk IP28 6QZ. replace two smaller Lexion 460s, winter wheat accounts for 36% Lexion 480, we found the Tel: 01284 763100 PRODUCTS Adjustable mounts Leica Geosystems has maintain production & process efficiency introduced a new, improved version of the successful Dozer 2000 GPS-based machine ft guidance system. Among the major enhancements. The changes will Adjustable mounts for need to stop the motor or enhancements to the make it easier for machine simplified installation of slacken the motor fixing bolts. Dozer 2000 product are operators to set up and carry Optimum drive mechanism electric motors from 0.5 a new high-accuracy GPS sensor, out earth moving functions using alignment and tensioning can be to 45 kW can be supplied by robust flat-panel computer simple on-screen graphic continuouslymaintained with Challenge Power Transmission display upgraded operating displays and icons. the minimum of effort, with no pic. These are high quality sofbA/are. wireless data transfer Also new for 2001 are a production or process time products, not to be confused and tilt sensor interface. wireless data transfer function, losses through unnecessary with inferior models, which The Dozer 2000 is one of permitting design files to be sent downtime. provide a high degree of linear the first Leica products to take from the office to the onboard A total of three motor movement to ensure the easy mounts are available in the advantage of the high-precision computer through the existing and effective tensioning of belt, range. The smallest,which typi MC500, a new dual-frequency radio network, and dual-axis tilt pulley and chain drives to cally accommodates metric GPS receiver, incorporating the sensor interface permitting the maximise the efficiency of framed motors (ref 63 and 71). highly acclaimed ClearTrak™ operator to see the long section power take-off points. has a full fore and after adjust signal processing technology and cross section slope of the Although designed for use ment of 80 mm. This increases ClearTrak™ provides machine as it works. wfth electric motors, the to 100 mm for the middle sized unsurpassed signal reception, 'The enhancements now mounts could also be used for mount, which can be fitted with satellitetracking, multipath being released in the new the installation of any equip motor frame sizes ref 80, both mitigation and jamming version of Dozer 2000 reflect ment where a simple single axis 90 and 100 S&L, 125 S&M, resistance. The MC500 provides the operational experience adjustment is required to together with 132 S, The outputs in Leica's proprietary gained in field applications achieve a final setting. They are largest mount is suitable for data format as well as the CMR during the last two years,' said ideal for use on OEM equip frame sizes 132S, together with and RTCM formats, ensuring Rod Eckels, business area ment as well as for retrofitting. 160, 180 and 200 M & L as well compatabilitywith any Leica manager for machine guidance The mounts comprise as 225 S& M.This mount unit dual-frequency survey receivers at Lieca Geosystems. 'Dozer rugged pressed steel assemblies provides a top plate movement as well as those of other 2000 systems are now in service with a sliding top plate which is of 180 mm. manufacturers. at numerous mining and adjusted with a hexagon headed The mounts have a stove threaded bolt Motors are sim enamelled finish with zinc plated The Dozer 2000 now offers construction sites in North ply bolted to the top plate as a adjustment screws for corrosion a new 150 mm colour flat-panel America, with an excellent permanent fixture. The lower protection and they weigh from computer displaythat mounts record for reliable performance rails of the mount assembly I to 19 kg according to size. inside the bulldozer's cab. The in the field." incorporate slotted holes for touch-screen display unit is Based inTorrance, California, fastening the complete unit into designed specifically to withstand the GPS Business Area of Leica position on an appropriate sur vibration, dust and temperature Geosystems Inc., designs, face. Contact: Challenge Power extremes. The unit's adjustable manufactures and markets The mounts are manufac Transmission PLC, Unit 4, brightness control makes it professional products usingthe tured to close tolerances to Phoenix Road, suitable for night and daytime Global Positioning System (GPS) ensure ease of top plate move Wednesfieid, work. for a bnoad range of survey ment while preventing noise or Wolverhampton, West Leica has released a new mapping, navigation, positioning, vibration when the motor is Midlands WVII 3PX. Tel: software version (V3.0) for the machine control and other operating. The take-off drive 01902 86611. Fax: 01902 Dozer 2000 containing a applications. system is tensioned with a single 866117. email: number of improvements and screw adjustment without the [email protected] 34 LANDWARDS SPRING 2001 Mew MF Quadlink tractor suspension The new tractor suspension sys without suspension, operators implements. traction; when working with tem - MF QuadLink - provides often throttle back when travel front linkage mounted imple ail the advantages of a suspend ling on tracks and roads both for Simple four link mecha ments when a uniform working ed front axle without the disad comfort and to have greater nism depth or height is required: and vantages associated with some control on uneven surfaces. Simple systems are often the when precise height control is other systems. Developed for The MF QuadLink suspended best, and that is definitely the needed with a front-end loader. four-wheel-drive Massey front axle moves to compensate case with tractor suspension. Ferguson 6200 and 8200 Series for variations in the terrain, The MF QuadLink design has 55 degree steering tractors from 79 to DIN kW, absorbing the humps and hol just four moving links, a single angle maintained the MF Quadlink offers simple lows to give a smoother ride. hydraulic ram, hydraulic accumu The high central pivot point of but effective operation. In par As a result, faster transport lators and an electronic control the QuadLink suspension system ticular it gives the operatorthe speeds can be maintained com system. has no detrimental effect on the choice of switching the system fortably and without compro When switched on, the auto tractor's turning circle, allowing on or off. It operates vertically mising safety. matic control system operates full use of the normal 55 only so does not produce any electronic hydraulic valves to degrees steering angle. As the variation in lead ratio to increase Higher output in the pressurise the QuadLink suspen suspension point is immediately tyre wear and the simple design field sion's accumulators. It always above the axle, movement of has no more grease points than In the field, the smoother ride sets suspension height at the the axle is in a vertical plane the standard MF front axle. allows the operator to maintain same level,regardless of the only, with no fore and aft move a high work rate without any weight on the front of the trac ment as in some other systems. Enhanced operator need to sacrifice speed for com tor The tractor's wheelbase and comfort fort. That translates into higher In operation, the four links lead ratio of the front wheels The MF QuadLink axle is avail output through the working day. allow the axle to oscillate by up are always fixed, so the system able on the four largest models The smoother ride also reduces to 15 degrees and the hydraulic causes no extra tyre scrub or in the MF 6200 Series (6260, stress on the tractor's compo ram and accumulators act as 6270. 6280 and 6290) and the nents, improving reliability and shock absorbers and springs to MF 8200 Series up to 139 DIN component life, reduce shock loading and main Easy maintenance kW(8210, 8220, 8240, and Greater productivity in field- tain an even ride with suspen The straightfoi^ard design 8250). Operators benefit from work is also achieved because sion travel of 90 mm. and construction of the MF improved ride charaaeristics the suspension system keeps the The operator can use the Quadlink system make it very resulting from the reduction in wheels in full contact with the tractor with the QuadLink sys reliable, with the low mainte shock loads and reduced fore ground for a higher proportion tem switched on for fully auto nance requirements. Like the and aft pitching. of the time. This improves front matic operation, or switched off. standard front axle, the suspend A major benefit is the reduc wheel traction, giving higher Switchingthe system off has ed axle has only four grease tion in transport time resulting work rates while reducing tyre advantages in some circum points, so routine maintenance from the ability to operate safely wear and soil damage. It also stances, such as; in heavy draught can be completed in the same at higher speeds on farm tracks gives more positive steering, work when maximum weight time. and public roads. On tractors even with heavy mounted transfer to the rear wheels aids allows the machine to run MewTruecraft diese equipment such as electric power tools, workshop flood Contact: John Chamberlain, lights and many other essential Spaldings (UK) Limited, Dowered generator electrical appliances. Sadler Road, Lincoln LN6 3X]. The machine is powered by an Tel; 01522 500600 . air cooled 4-strokeYanmar 300 Fax; 01522 689011. The new generator, say cc diesel engine and is fitted email: Spaldings.provides constant with two 16 A 240 V sockets, marketing(@Spaldings.co.uk power for many applications one 16 A and one 32 AI 10 V Web Site: wwwspaldings.co.uk around the farm wherever and socket for maximum versatility. whenever you need it. Diesel Fully CE marked and backed by power gives the extra reliability, a full 12 month warranty The ruggedness and greater generator can be ordered efficiency than petrol machines under product number 14695 and has a fuel usage of only 1.5 and is priced at £1349.30 l/h. The new generator has a maxi mum output of 4.7 kVA which PRODUCTS ATS weeder from Alderson-Davies 101 log Hollanc - splitter/agricultural press speed and accuracy The active tracking system shares, The result is an (ATS) is an innovative increase of capacity of 2-3 mechanical weeder times that ofthe traditional patented by the inventor weeder For instance in Frank Mutsaers. sugar beet, the 3 m Tlie patented control attachment has a capacity system is mounted in front ofabout 4 ha/h. r .-..m .•mm, ofthe tractor; to steer the Following with a band futiii inmm - mm uuwz machine along the rows, sprayer shows an SSSSsS*®"!52S The tractoi* driver's task is impressive reduction of £; . ''Wi simplified and accuracy chemical use, which will be made easy In other words welcomed by farmers with the ATS, the operator practising biological i5HU"L anticipatesthe direction in methods. Urgency to which the hoes are moving reduce the use of and where they will be herbicides, speedy and within a short time. With precise weeding was the patented steering clearlythe aim of the system, the weeder moves designers. The final design independent of the tractor includes regulating depth to the right and left. whilst moving: adjustable Guidance bars are hoe fixing: lightweight but mounted in front ofthe robust: integrated levelling weeder. so all the operator and so on. • I his log splitter is probably the most serious log splitter on the has to do is to see that the Example price of 3 m market and compares wellwith lighterduty imported bars are above the crop. wide weeder set for sugar machines. It gives 10tonnes of hydraulic muscle and can split Track discs are fitted to beet is around £7,000. anytype of timber - oak ash. beech,etc. up to 0.9 m diameter by ensure that the weeder Homburg are in the 0.6 m long. maintains a steady course. process of appointing !t is of an industrial robust construction with a large double The main features of dealers in the UK. acting hydraulic cylinderand gives optimum splitting action at a the system, thoroughly convenient work height for maximum daily work output and tested in Holland, include minimum operator fatigue. It isfitted with an easily removable hard speed, accuracy and simpie Further information steel wedge for long life. The wedge may be re-sharpened or operation. from Homburg in the replaced and copes with knots and nails without problem. The system is accurate UK, Saiters House The machine may also be used as an hydraulic press for pressing within 5 mm. At the same Sudbury, Suffolk. Tel : in bearings or straightening tines etc. It has excellentcontrol action time, a speed of 7 km/h is 01787 372233. with twin control levers and guardingfor maximum safety. Various possible using 70 cm wide straightening tools are available. Ittakes onlythree minutes to convert from log splitter to hydraulic press. The machine can be suppliedto fittractors with 3-point linkage, forklift trucks or wheeled loaders. This allows the machine to be used in any location without man handling into position. Itcan be supplied with adjustable feet or on wheels or castors ifrequired. The prototype was conceived,builtand tested by Phil Alderson and Chris Davies of Craven Arms,and well proven for over 2 years. The production model was redesigned and built by Dudley Designs & Technical Services. Contact: Maurice Arnold, Tel: (01384) 291139. Fax: (01384) 400944. 36 LANDWARDS SPRING 2001 SAWMILL bpularity ofall-electric AC Dand-sawmills Wood-Mizer is enhancing its range of all-electric, AC band-sawmills, following the popularity with which they have been met throughout Europe since their 1999 launch. The mills were originally developed to meet the needs of a majority of East European Wood-Mizer owners who operate in fixed, static locations in central and Eastern Europe - as well as the lar^e minority who do so in Western Europe. Suchoperators do not require the flexibility nor mobility which the majority of 25,OCX} Wood-Mizer diesel and petrol-driven portable handsaws, with DC electric drives, provide worldwide. They are quieter and easier to maintain, yet still powerful. And the new versions are even safer; simpler; more serviceable, and easier and more comfortable to operate. The new versions dispense with the clutch lever simpliiying box. attachment removes bark and Carriage feed, head extends blade life and the the units' construction as well as making them both more up/down, log loading and 'LubeMizer' (also optional) debarking are all provided by rigid and easier to service. This biade lubricating system 380 volt, 3-phase AC industrial ensures that even woods with also enhances operator motors. high sap content can be cut comfort. Safety is further improved The mills' simple, durable straight and true. by electromagnetic brakes design suits them to around- the-clock. often harsh within the main motor which operating conditions. stop both motor and blade in They are also available in one second. HORE INFORMATION A new operating panel the same 'Super' and standard allowsoperation of all virtually sawmill options, which involve For further information, a video or a demonstration different grades of cutting head all functions from the console: call Peter Burn, Wood-Mizer UK, High Oak Farm, forward carriage; speeds, carriage drives and log 05waldkirk.YorkY062 5YF. Tei:OI 439 788030. Fax: raising/lowering the blade; de manoeuvrability power The 01439 788031. barking; and blade lubrication. smallest model, the LT15. is Hydraulic functions are still now also available as an all- operated from the hydraulics electric AC mill. The optional debarker 41 BE N B J7 A , {\> Ifyou have found something of interest in this journal, send for details of membership to: The Secretary, Professional Contacts Professional meetings Institution ofAgricultural Engineers, Network with national and Participate in meetings suited to the West End Road, Siisoe, Bedford, international experts from man)' fields wide and varied interests of members in the industry for help to solve your at national conferences,regional branch MK45 4DU. problems. lAgrE, through its meetings and specialist group events. professional and teclmical committees, Tel: 01525 861096 provides a regular forum for members' Free publications Fax: 01525 861660 Every member receives their own personal copy of the lAgrE journal, Professional qualifications Landwards,covering research,technical Many employers recognise the value developments and applications, of lAgrE membersliip and the company and product information, professional registration with and Ae lAgrE Newsletter, Membersliip Engineering Council that it provides. Matters, with news of Institution activities and members' Professional registration registration, provides a guide to lAgrE is a body nominated by engineering competence at national Engineering Council to register and international level. members as Chartered Engineer (CEng), hicoiporated Engineer (lEng), Other entitlements and EnguieeringTechnician (EngTech). Education and Careers advisory service; Chartered Engineers may also be Appointments Register and advisory registered as European Engineer service; extensive technical library (Euring). facilities.